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M A G N E R ' S 



ART .01' 



Tarriing » arid ^ Edacating «» Herses. 



THE 

ART OF TAMING AND EDUCATING 

The Horse: 



A 3TSTBM THAT MAKES EAST AND PBACTIOAli THE SUBJECTION OF WILD AND VIOIODB 

BOBSES, HERETOFORE PRACTICED AND TAUGHT BY THE AUTHOR AS A SECRET, 

AND NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHED ; INDORSED BY LEADING CITIZENS 

AND COMMITTEES OF EXPERTS IN THE PRINCIPAL CITIES AND 

TOWNS OF THE UNITED STATES A3 UNQUALIFIEDLY 

THE SIMPLEST, MOST HUMANE AND EFFECTIVE IN THE WORLD ; 



Details of Management in t/te Subjection of oyer 

FORTY REPRESENTATIVE VICIOUS HORSES, 

AND 

The Story of the Author's Personal Experience ; 

TOGETHER WITH CHAFTEB8 ON 

FEEDING, STABLING, SHOEING, IND THE PBACTICAL TBEATMENT FOB SICKNESS, 
I LAMENESS, etc., WITH A LARGE NUMBER OF RECIPES HEBE- 
'' TOFOBE SOLD AS GREAT SECBETS. 




900 ILLUSTRATIONS. 



BY D. MAGNER, 

Assisted in the Medical Department by JAMES HAM ILL, D. V.S., formerly Lecturer on Shoeing and Disease 
of the Foot, in Columbia Veterinary College, N. Y.; CHAS. A. MEYER, D. V. S., New York; 
JOHN McLaughlin, D. V.S., state (New Jersey) Veterinary I nspector f or the 
Board of Health; B.C. McBETH, Vet. Surgeon, Battle Creek, "MrcF.'"" 



BATTLE CREEK, MIChVc.^ I "7 V^^ij^'*' 

w Rr Hiri»ATr» Ptttjt tcxiim/- TTnTtM? ^ ^ .S H \ " _-j;^'^ 



Review & Herald Publishing HoiJse. 
1884 



"i Entered according lo Act of Congress, in llie Year lss;{, 

By D. MAGNER, 
In tlie Office of the Librarian of ('ongress. at AVashington. 



Ai-i- Rtghts Reseuvet). 



¥'■ 



Notice.. — Friends luho may whli io com- 
municalc with me directhj hi relaiion io this hook, or other busi- 
ness, r>lease address — 

J). MAGNER, 

Battle Creek, Mich. 

(Sec also page 1081.) 



/ 7^J 



// 



PREFACE: 



There are eleven million horses in the United States, and not 
one man in a million who knows how to educate them to the highest 
degree of usefulness. We say educate; for the horse is an animal 
of high and spirited organization, endowed by his Creator with 
capabilities and faculties which sufficiently resemble man's to come 
under the same general law of education and government. Prima- 
rily, the word educate means to lead out or lead up; and it is by 
this process of leading out and leading up a child's faculties that 
the child becomes a useful man, and it is by a like process that a 
colt becomes a useful horse. Now teachers, like poets, are born, 
not made. Only a few are gifted to see into and see through any 
form of highly organized life, discern its capacities, note the interior 
tendencies which produce habits, and discover the method of 
developing the innate forces until they reach their noblest expres- 
sion, and then apply the true and sufficient guidance and govern- 
ment. The few who have this gift are teachers indeed, and, next to 
the mothers of the world, deserve the world's applause as foremost 
among its benefactors. 

Next to child training and government comes horse training and 
government ; atid which is the least understood, it were hard to say. 
Boys and colts, so much alike in friskiness and stubbornness, both 
are misunderstood and abused in equal ratio. The boys are shaken 
and whipped, and colts are yanked, kicked, and pounded. That 
high-spirited or slow-witted boys become good men, and high- 

* This preface was written by a gentleman well known in the world of letters, 
and especially famous, not only as a lover of fine horses, but as a high authority on 
all matters concerning them. Learning that I had in preparation a new work, he 
volunteered to write the preface, which is here given as a concise introduction to the 
author's own labors, with a high apijreciation of the compliment paid him by the 
distinguished writer, in the personal allusion, the publication of which demands no 
apology when its high source is considered. 

(vii) 



Vlll 



PREFACE. 



spirited or dull colts make serviceable horses, I conceive is due to 
the grace of God more than to man's agency, — that fine grace, I 
mean, spread abroad through and existing in all His creatures, 
■which operates in regenerating continually, making the good better, 
preventing those whose circumstances forbid their becoming good 
from becoming absolutely bad. 

The author of this book is known to me as one of the gifted 
ones of the earth, because he is gifted to discern the nature of 
animals, and educate them for man's service. The possession of 
this gift suggested his mission, and well has he followed it, and by 
it been educated himself to a degree rarely, if ever, attained by man 
before. I doubt if there be on the globe his equal in knowledge as 
to the best method of training horses. Through this volume he 
seeks to give the public the benefit of his experience. I bespeak for 
it the careful perusal of the curious, and of those especially whose 
judgment and heart alike prompt them to seek for and promulgate 
knowledge, which, being popularized, would make the people more 
humane and horses more serviceable, 

W. H. H. M. 



-^-o 




i^W OF COPYRIGHTS, 



The exclusive benefits of copyrights extend to twenty-eight years^ 
then renewable for fourteen years; if the author is dead, to the 
heirs, by re-recording, and advertising the re-record for four weeks 
in any newspaper in the United States. 

The forfeiture of all the books, and a penalty of fifty cents on 
each sheet [sixteen pages) of the work, half to the United States, 
and half to the author, is the penalty for publishing or importing 
any work without the written consent of the author ; and the printer 
is equally liable with the publisher. 

Entries must be sent to the Librarian of Congress at Washing- 
ton, JD. O. The laws are found in Vol. IV. of the United States 
Statutes, pages JiB6-Ji39. 

J^^This Work is protected by three separate Copyrights, cover- 
ing, first, its Title ; second, its Literary Composition ; and third, 
its Ungravings.""^^ 

There are also three patents covering important methods of 
subjection and treatment given in this book. First, a simple means 
of subjection by which any horse, however vicious, balky, or unman- 
ageable, can be put in harness, subdued, and driven gently without 
danger of accident. Second, a method by which headstrong, lung- 
ing, runaway horses can be controlled directly, and so subdued by 
the pressure of the reins upon the nerve centers, that he will soon 
submit to the ordinary restraint of the bit. Third, a method of 
preventing and curing contraction and quarter-crack — an absolute 
cure for quarter-crack, with freedom to drive on any road as desired, 
without causing the hoof to split back as it grows — guaranteed a 
means of perfect cure. Fourth, (p)atent pending,) a method by which 
most pulling, lugging horses on the bit will drive safely and easily 
to a pleasant and easy restraint of the reins. 

^^ Purchasers of this work from the author or his agents will 
be given a special certificate entitling them to the use of either or all 
these patents {for personal use only), without extra charge ; all 
others using them, will he subject to legal proceedings."^^^ 

(ix) 



GENERAL SUMpRY OF TI^IS WORK, 

Title Pages, Preface, Law of Copyright, and Gen- 
eral Summary, 8 pages. 

Contents, 12 " 

Introduction, 13 " 

The Work Proper and Index, 10G9 ' ' 

Total, 1102 pages. 

^^ 



**CON TENTS.** 



PAGE. 

INTRODUCTION 30 

CHAPTER I. 

METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 20 

Principles of Taming and Teaching Horses 20 

First Method of Subjection 30 

Second Method of Subjection 38 

Third Method of Subjection . 48 

Control by "Whipping 60 

The War Bridle— First Form 61 

Double Draw Hitch Form 62 

Second Form - 63 

W. or Breaking Bit ■ • 70 

Four-Ring or Upper Jaw Bit 72 

Half -Moon Bit 75 

Spoon Bit 76 

Patent Bridle 76 

Foot Strap , 79 

Breaking Rig 83 

CHAPTER II. 

COLT TRAINING • • 91 

Haltering a Wild Colt • • 92 

Taming or Making the Colt Gentle ■ • 94 

Teaching to Follow— How to Make the Colt Follow Instantly . 96 

Training to Follow with the Whip Two Ways 96 

Training to Follow with Halter and War Bridle 96 

Driving to Harness - • 1^3 

Bitting 107 

Hitching to Wagon 110 

Sullen, Lunging Colts 113 

Colts that Throw themselves over Backwards • • 114 

Driving Double • H" 

Hitching the Colt by the Halter 116 

(xi) 



xii CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER III. 

EXCESSIVE FEAR.— ITS EFFECTS 118 

Fear of Rattle of Wagon 125 

Jumping out of Shafts '. . . . 126 

Fear of Top Wagon 126 

Objects Exciting Fear while Riding or Driving 127 

Fear of a Robe 129 

Fear of an Umbrella or Parasol 130 

Fear of Sound of a Gun 131 

Fear of Hogs and Dogs 132 

Fear of Railroad Cars 132 

Insanity 135 

Illustrative Cases. — Case 1. — Press Horse, Gowanta, N. Y. 136 

Case 2.— Brookville Horse, Pa 136 

Case 3. — Gates Horse, Garrettsville, 140 

Case 4. — Dr. Keegan's Horse, Cleveland, 141 

Case 5. — Greencastle Horse, Pa 142 

Case 6.— Collins Horse, Toledo, 144 

Case 7. — Rochester Horse, N. Y 145 

Case 8.— Wild Pete, Petroleum Centre, Pa. 147 

CHAPTER IV. 

KICKING 152 

Runaway Kickers 170 

Confirmed Kickers 171 

Sulky Kickers 173 

Switching Kickers 179 

Kicking Straps 179 

Foot Straps 182 

Over-draw Check 183 

Hip Strap 186 

Four-ring Bit 187 

Kicking when Struck with the Whip in Driving 188 

Kickers in Stall 190 

Kicking while Harnessing 193 

Kicking and Biting while Grooming 196 

Bad to Bridle 196 

Illustrative Cases. — Case 1. — Putney Horse, Vt 197 

Case 2. — Malone Horse, Cleveland, O 198 

Case 3. — Watson Horse, Memphis, Tenn. 201 

Case 4.— Hettrick Horse, New York City 203 

Case 5. — Hankey Mare, Gettysburg, Pa 206 

Case 6. — Goodman Horse, Mississippi 207 

Case 7.— Mc Vay Horse, Mansfield, 212 

Case 8. — General Knox Stallion, Lancaster, N. H 215 



CONTENTS. xiii 

Case 9.— Wild Ravenna Colt, O 218 

Case 10.— Lima Stallion 220 

CHAPTER V. 

BAD TO SHOE 222 

Palliative Treatment 222 

Confirmed, in the Habit 229 

Regular Subjective Treatment 237 

Leaning Over 239 

CHAPTER VI. 

BALKING 240 

Palliative Treatment 243 

A Maine Man's Method 246 

Regular Treatment 248 

Restless Balkers 250 

Balking Double 252 

Best Treatment. 253 

Overloading 255 

niustrative Cases. — Case No. 1 257 

Case No. 2 257 

Case No. 3 257 

Case No. 4 358 

CHAPTER VII. 

RUNNING AWAY 261 

Case No. 1. — Dover Plains Horse 267 

Case No. 2.— West Falls, N. Y. 267 

Half -moon Bit 268 

Spoon Bit 269 

Four-ring Bit 271 

Patent Bridle 272 

Lugging, or Pulling upon One Rein 273 

WiU not Back ....'". 274 

Will not Wait or Stand when getting into or out of Wagon. 276 

CHAPTER VIII. 

HALTER PULLING 279 

Running Back in the Stall when Unhitched 289 

Making a Horse Stand without Hitching 290 

How to Hitch to a Smooth Tree or Post so that the Strap wiU not 

Slip 291 



xiv CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER IX. 

STALLIONS 292 

Treatment for Headstrong Stallions 296 

Treatment for very Vicious Stallions 299 

Godolphin Arabian 308 

CHAPTER X. 

MISCELLANEOUS HABITS 316 

To Catch a Horse 316 

Cribbing 319 

Wind-sucking 323 

Putting the Tongue out of the Mouth 323 

Pawing in Stall 325 

Kicking in Stall 326 

Getting Cast in Stall 326 

Jumping over Fences 327 

Tender Bitted 328 

Kicking Cows 328 

To Lead a Cow Easily 330 

To Force a Horse on a Trot 330 

CHAPTER XI. 

TEACHING TRICKS 334 

Teaching to Follow with Whip 334 

Teaching to Nod his Head, or Say "Yes" 334 

Teaching to Shake his Head, or Say "No " 334 

Teaching to Tell his Age 334 

Teaching to Kick Up 335 

Teaching to Kiss 337 

Teaching to Lie Down and Sit Up 337 

Teaching to Sit Up 339 

Teaching to Throw Boys 340 

Teaching to Walk upon his Hind Feet 345 

Teaching to Walk upon the Knees 

Teaching to Chase a Man out of Ring 346 

Teaching to Drive without Reins 347 

CHAPTER XII. 

HORSE-BACK RIDING 350 

How to Sit upon a Horse 351 

Secure and Insecure Positions 352 

Mounting • 355 

Holding the Reins 357 



CONTENTS. XV 

Ladies Learning to Ride 358 

The Value of Horseback Riding for Cure of Dyspepsia, etc 360 

CHAPTER XIII. 

SUBJECTION 365 

Historical Facts 365 

Dick Christian 365 

Bull 365 

Jumper 366 

The Irish Whisperer 366 

Offutt 368 

O. H. P. Fancher ■ 368. 

John S. Rarey. — How he Attained his Success, etc 368 

The Effects of Treatment 384 

Review of System 397 

Medicines or Drugs 403 

Control by the Eye or WiU 408 

Illustrative Cases. — Case 1. — Mt. Vernon Horse 412 

Case 3. — Gallopsville Horse 414 

Case 3. — Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s Horse 415 

Case 4. — Oxford Horse " 418 

Case 5. — Hermon Horse 420 

Case 6.— Wilkins Horse 431 

Case 7. — Hillman Horse, Jet 425 

Case 8. — Norwalk Horse 434 

Case 9. — Allegan Man-Eater 435 

Case 10. — Roberts Horse 440 

Case 11. — Mustang Pony 443 

CHAPTER XIV. 

DENTON OFFUTT, Rarey's Instructor, 449 

Extracts from Offutt's Book. — Taming with Medicines . 456 

Great Secret for Taming 456 

CHAPTER XV. 
FAMILIAR TALK WITH THE READER 457 

CHAPTER XVI. 

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE 473 

Almost a Failure 479 

Meeting Difficulties 481 

Experiments 483 

Driving without Reins 485 

First Publication 487 



xvi CONTEISJTS. 

Visit to Maine 488 

Exciting Curiosity 491 

Success in Maine 493 

Special Experiments 495 

Difficulties 497 

Opposition 499 

Success in Cleveland 501 

Success in Michigan 503 

Publications Revised 507 

In New York 509 

Test Experiments 523 

Keeping Engagements 583 

CHAPTER XVII. 

BREEDING 587 

Selection of Stallion 589 

Care of the Mare 540 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

STABLING 543 

Serious Objections 545 

Ventilation 547 

Proper Style of Rack, etc 549 

CHAPTER XIX. 

FEEDING AND WATERING 550 

Cooking the Food 554 

Watering 557 

CHAPTER XX. 

HOW TO TELL THE AGE 559 

Diseases of the Teeth 567 

CHAPTER XXI. 

SHOEING.— Part First , 580 

Outline of the Structure of the Foot 581-592 

General Remarks •. 627 

Trimming 646 

Excessive Paring. — Remarks from Gamgee 653 

Adjustment of the Shoe 657 

Nailing the Shoe 661 

Clinching Down the Nail 665 

Shoeing the Hind Feet 666 

Contraction 668 



CONTENTS. xvii 

The Spreaders 681 

Curling under of Heel 685 

Quarter Crack 691 

Corns 695 

Weak Heels 700 

Clicldng, or Overreaching 707 

Stumbling 708 

Shoeing Sore or Tender Feet 708 

Shoeing Foundered Horses 711 

Extracts from — Gamgee on Coleman, Youatt, Miles, Flemming's 
Comments, Osmer, SoUesey, Lafosse, Freeman, M. Char- 
lier -. . . . 713-735 

CHAPTER XXII. 

CIRCULATION 733 

General Plan of Circulation 733 

Ventilation 743 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT 746 

Inflammation 746 

Antiphlogistics 749 

Osteosarcoma 751 

Enchondrona 751 

Diseases of the Bones 751 

Anchylosis of Bone 753 

Caries of Bone 753 

Necrosis of Bone 753 

Exostosis, or Bony Enlargement, 754 

Splint, or Splent 754 

CHAPTER XXIY. 

DISEASES OF THE JOINTS 756 

Spavin 756 

Ring-bone 770 

Side Bone, or False Ring-bone ." 773 

Curb 773 

Bog Spavin, or Thorough-pins 774 

Capped Hock 776 

Wind-GaUs : 776 

CHAPTER XXY. 

NAVICULAR-JOINT LAMENESS 778-798 

Neurotomy 799 

Condition of the Feet in Chronic Lameness 803 

1* 



xviH CONTENTS. 

Hypertrophy 803 

Atrophy 803 

Corns 805, 813 

Laminitis, or Founder ' . . . . 828 

Chronic Founder 838 

Peditis, or Inflammation of the Os Pedis 

CHAPTER XXVI. 

CATARRH .841 

Laryngitis, or Sore Tliroat 843 

Strangles, or Horse Distemper 845 

Glanders and Farcy 848, 854 

CHAPTER XXVII. 

CHRONIC COUGH 854 

Heaves, or Broken Wind 856 

Roaring 859 

Bronchocele 861 

Nasal Gleet 862 

Influenza — Epizootic Catarrhal Fever 864 

Pink Eye 866 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 

DISEASES OF THE CHEST 868 

Congestion of the Lungs 873 

Pneumonia — Inflammation of the Lungs 875 

Pleurisy 878, 882 

Hydrothorax, or "Water on the Chest . 883 

Typhoid Pneumonia 884 

Bronchitis 885 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

COLIC 886 

Tympanites, or Flatulent Colic 894 

Inflammation of the Bowels 898 

Superpurgation, Diarrhea, etc 902 

Constipation 905 

Worms 906 

Bots 912 

Inflammation of the Kidneys 915 

Profuse Staling, (Diuresis) 916 

Retention of Urine 918 

Bloody Urine 918 



CONTENTS. xix 

CHAPTER XXX. 

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM 918 

Inflammation of the Brain — Phrenitis 919 

Megrims, or Vertigo 931 

Sun Stroke 932 

Paralysis • 927 

Azoturia — Partial Paralysis — Spinal Meningitis 923 

Rabies, or Madness 931 

Tetanus, or Lockjaw 928 

Stringhalt 935 

Thumps, or Spasmodic Action of the Diaphragm 935 

Lymphangitis — "Weed — Monday Morning Leg 937 

The Peritoneum 938 

Peritonitis 938 

The Stomach 939 

Indigestion 939 

Acidity of the Stomach 939 

Acute Indigestion ..-. 940 

CHAPTER XXXI. 

THE FOOT— INJURIES OF, AND CAUSE OF LAMENESS 941 

Pricking in Shoeing, Stepping on Glass, etc. 941 

Foot Lameness 945 

Seedy Toe 946 

GraveUing 947 

Bruise of the Sole 947 

Treads or Calks 948 

Overreach 951 

Quittor 951 

Thrush 954 

Canker 955 

CHAPTER XXXII. 

SPRAINS, BRUISES, ETC .956 

Sprain of the Back Tendons 957 

Breaking Down ^ 962 

Sprain of the Fetlock 963 

Sprain of the Perforans Tendons 964 

Joint Lameness 964 

Shoulder Lameness 664 

Sweeney 966 

Hip Lameness 968 

Knuckling Over 970 

Broken Knees, or Open Joint 971 

Fractures • 974 



XX CO]^TE]SrTS. 

Dislocation of the Patella, or Stifled 976 

Stifle-joint Lameness 977 

CHAPTER XXXIII. 

CUTS AND WOUNDS 977 

Injuries of the Tongue 983 

Sore Mouth 984 

Fistula of the Withers and Poll Evil 985, 987 

CHAPTER XXXIV. 

DISEASES OF THE EYE - 990-998 

Simple Ojphthalmia, or Inflammation of the Eye. : 991 

Specific or Periodic Ophthalmia 994 

Amaurosis, or Glass Eye 997 

Cataract 998 

Dropsy of the Belly — Ascites 999 

Anasarca, or Swelled Legs 1000 

Inflammation of the Veins — ^Phlebitis 1001 

Thrombus 1002 

Lampas . . ; 1003 

CHAPTER XXXV. 

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE SKIN 1003 

Surfeit 1003 

Urticaria, Nettle Rash, Hives, etc 1004 

Mange 1005 

Hen Lice 1007 

Ring- Worm 1007 

Scratches, Mud Fever, and Cracked Heels 1008 

Grease 1012 

Tumor on the Shoulder 1014 

Tumor on Point of the Elbow " 1016 

Sallenders 1017 

Mallenders 1017 

Saddle or Collar Galls 1017 

CHAPTER XXXVI. 

TENOTOMY 1018 

Division of the Tendons , 1019 

Castration 1022 

Injuries and Diseases of the Penis 1024 

Foulness of the Sheath and Yard 1025 

Parturition, or Foahng 1025 

Abnormal Presentations 1026 

Blisters 1027 



CONTENTS. xxi 

Counter Irritants 1038 

Hot Fomentations lt)33 

Poultices , 1034 

The Pulse 1035 

Giving Balls 1038 

Physicking ^ 1040 

Bleeding, or Phlebotomy 1042 

Setons 1044 

The Eowel 1044 

Tracheotomy 1045 

Embrocations 1047 

Caustics 1049 

CHAPTEE, XXXVII. . 

MISCELLANEOUS RECIPES 1050-1061 

Recipes from the Author's old book . ; 1062-1072 

Human Remedies 1073-1081 

General Index. 1082-1088 




IKT'RO'DJJGTIOX. 

The horse is tlie most indispensable and valuable of all 
the animals used by man. Nearly all the avocations and 
many of the recreations of every-day life^ are largely 
dependent on the use of horses. When treated intelligently 
and properly, the horse is the most tractable and serviceable 
of all the domestic animals ; but if treated ignorantly or 
badly, he is liable to become so vicious and unmanageable 
as to be comparatively if not wholly worthless. 

While there is no lack of information and accepted 
authority on breeding, stabling, shoeing, driving, color, etc., 
etc., as pertaining to horses, there is a singular lack of 
authority, or even intelligent understanding, on the art of 
arts, namely, that of teaching, subduing, and changing the 
character of wild or vicious horses, as desired. In fact, 
there is no book or other authority on the subject, it being 
practically a new science, the principles of which have but 
recently become understood, as developed by the author of 
this work. 

There is no subject more of a mystery, even to the 
most intelligent, or about the successful performance of 
which there is more incredulity or misconception. It is 
supposed that if a horse is courageous and strong, and 
becomes vicious or resists control, the fault must be wholly 
in an incorrigibly bad temper, that makes his successful 
management impossible \ whereas a proper understanding 
of the subject shows that the animal's condition is the 
result of ignorant, bad treatment, and which kind, intelligent 
treatment would entirely prevent or overcome ; and that 
in consequence, a large proportion of the best horses by 



8 INTRODUCTION. 

nature have fastened upon them habits that make them 
practically unsafe and worthless for use. Then by the 
present system, proved to he so defective and injurious, it 
is the work not unfrequently of months and years to break 
colts to drive; and even after this great expenditure of 
time and effort, many of the best horses are ruined ; so 
that the loss to the people of the country both from the 
depreciation of value, accidents, and loss of time, is in the 
aggregate enormous. 

One horse kicks ; a second balks ; a third pulls against 
the bit and runs away despite the efforts of several men to 
hold him ; a fourth will not stand while persons are getting 
into or out of a carriage ; another is liable to kick the 
blacksmith over when he tries to take up or hold his foot 
for shoeing, compelling, in many cases, the necessity of 
roping the horse down on his side to be shod ; another is 
liable to kick any person coming within reach of his heels ; 
the next is perhaps all right until he catches the rein 
under his tail — which he is sure to do — when he is liable 
to kick or run away ; while, perhaps, the next will try to 
pull loose or break his neck when hitched by a halter or 
bridle; another fears a baby-wagon, stone, stump, dog, 
white cow, umbrella, robe, train of cars, or something else. 
One horse will not stand ; another will not back ; another 
will pull away when led by the halter ; another lugs on 
the bit, or pulls on one rein. One horse will not work 
double, another wiU not work single ; and so on to the end 
of the catalogue of vices to which horses are subject. 
These, with many other vices or habits that could be 
mentioned, are the cause not only of great pecuniary loss, 
but of personal injury, if not destruction of life, throughout 
the country, which, when fully realized, is fearful to con- 
template. What city, village, or neighborhood is there 
that has not almost daily disastrous accidents resulting 



INTRODUCTION. 9 

from the use of horses ? And how many horses of spirit 
do we find that do not have some one or more of these 
habits that have been mentioned ? 

Now if we can prevent or overcome all this without 
abuse or accident, saving at least nineteen twentieths of 
the time employed in breaking them, and give assurance of 
their entire subjection and safety, it is certainly deserving 
of bieing ranked among the most important features of 
benevolence and economy to the people of the country. 

There have not been wanting at different times many 
who have pretended to be able to tame and control horses 
of the most vicious character, but upon investigation it has 
proved that their success was based upon a very slender 
knowledge of the art. Whatever has been my own success, 
it is a slow growth, the result of long-continued observation 
and experimenting, following up every apparent or real 
clue that promised success, until I learned how to act 
directly upon the horse's brain, and to influence it as 
desired. My progress at first was very slow and uncertain, 
and I was exposed almost constantly to failures. This, 
though annoying and frequently discouraging, was the only 
means of instruction by which I was finally able to grasp 
the subject with sufficient clearness to reduce the knowledge 
to a practical basis. 

During the early part of my experience I was greatly 
misled, and consequently lost much valuable time in 
experimenting on wrong principles and methods of treat- 
ment, and was compelled to abandon such methods by 
reason of failures. In this way I was led to study out new 
principles and methods of treatment, adapted to the various 
peculiarities of disposition and character in horses, until I 
was able to discern with great certainty the exact treatment 
for each case. 

The prevailing lack of confidence in my principles and 



10 INTRODUCTION. 

methods of management was also a serious cause of 
embarrassment to me, since it continually forced me, at 
great expense and loss of time, to make experiments upon 
the most vicious horses that could be found, in order to 
prove the value of my treatment. The experiments in 
New York City, and other places, referred to in Personal 
Experience, will in part illustrate this. 

In the winter of '78 my health had become so seriously 
impaired that I was compelled to give up traveling. I 
now concluded to carry out at my leisure the purpose 
which had for some time been developing in my mind, that 
of writing out the full details of my system, including such 
knowledge as I believed most valuable to horse-owners for 
reference. I at first intended to make a work of only 
about three hundred pages, which would embody merely 
the simple outlines I gave to classes, with some additions 
to the treatment for sickness and lameness which I had 
already given in my old book. But after writing it up and 
preparing the illustrations I supposed necessary, I could 
see so much that should be added, that I was induced to 
rewrite the whole matter, bringing it up to about six 
hundred pages with about three hundred and fifty illustra- 
tions. When this was completed, I again found it necessary 
to make still more additions, until it grew upon my hands 
to its present size and number of illustrations. 

The great point in teaching classes was measured by 
the success I had in the control of such especially vicious 
horses as might be presented for experiment, often requir- 
ing nearly the whole time at my disposal. As a general 
thing, even the best class of people cared but little for 
principles, which were really the most important and 
necessary to a true understanding of the subject. They 
simply wanted the proofs of what the treatment would do. 
Consequently, if I could only be successful in hitching up, 



INTRODUCTION. 11 

driving, or controlling, as advertised, such horses as they 
might produce (and the more quickly and sensationally 
this could be done, the stronger the proof of my skill) , no 
matter how loosely or imperfectly the explanation of 
principles was given, they were sure to be satisfied. But 
it in all cases limited me to such a mere outline in the 
explanation of principles as well as details of treatment, 
that though I was in nearly all cases successful in giving 
the most perfect satisfaction to all who attended my 
lectures, it was no less true that but very few received 
more than the most limited idea of my methods of treat- 
ment. It was rarely that even the most attentive members 
of the class could explain more than the simplest form of 
war bridle, or put on the rig for the first method of subjec- 
tion, even after being fitted. Possibly they might put on 
the cord in a rough way for the third method, but they 
received nothing Hke the clear, comprehensive knowledge 
of the subject which can be obtained from this work. 

The value of this book depending mainly upon its 
authenticity, I deemed it necessary to include a chapter 
explaining how I came to engage in the business, with an 
outline of my progress, under the head of Personal 
Experience. I have included many indorsements, some 
of which are so strongly personal, that delicacy would 
forbid their presentation, but I felt compelled to do so to 
give greater authenticity to my statements. 

With the enlargement of the work, grew also the 
necessity for making the department for the treatment of 
sickness and lameness equally complete. With this object 
in view, I made considerable effort to secure the aid of the 
best veterinary skill I could find. I first called upon Dr. 
Bates, the Dean of the Columbia Veterinary College, 
N. Y. ; also upon Dr. Walton, the House Surgeon of the 
same institution, to whom I gave my plans. They treated 



12 INTRODUCTION. 

me cordially, and promised me all the aid in their power, 
Dr. Walton afterward giving me much aid on several 
important points. By his advice, I called upon Dr. Hamill 
(416 East 14th Street), formerly Professor of Pathological 
Shoeing in the college, for the purpose of getting his assist- 
ance in the writing of the chapter on Shoeing. This gen- 
tleman, upon introducing myself, recognized me as an old 
acquaintance, having attended my lectures while in the city 
in 1872, He expressed himself especially interested in my 
efforts, and volunteered all the aid in his power to give. 
I took notes from him on all the necessary points on 
Shoeing, and he promised to read over anything I should 
write on the subject, and make such additions or alterations 
as he might find advisable. I found it more difficult to 
secure the necessary assistance in the other departments. 
I stated the difficulty to Dr. Hamill, and expressed the fear 
that I would be likely to fail, when he came nobly to my 
aid, with his personal services and fine library, which were 
constantly at my disposal. He also secured for me the 
help of two of his colleagues, Dr. Meyer (409 East 84th 
Street), New York City, and Dr. John McLaughlin of 
Jersey City, now of Providence, R. I., both of whom a few 
years previous had graduated with high honors at the 
Columbia Veterinary College. 

To facilitate my work, I had these gentlemen dictate 
to me the outlines of treatment in the simpl'est language 
possible, with permission to make any changes I desired. 
The dictations in all cases were made without premedita- 
tion or study, the point in view being to give me facts in 
the fewest words. This was the more difficult for them 
from the fact that in all cases they were limited to my 
ability to take notes, as on account of the peculiarly 
sensitive condition of my health I could endure but very 
brief conversation, and but thirty or forty minutes' writing 



INTRODUCTION. 13 

at one time. But, notwithstanding the generous aid given 
me by the gentlemen named, especially Drs. Hamill and 
Meyer, there was still much important matter needed, which 
I was finally so fortunate as to secure, prepared by no less 
an authority than that of a gentleman, who is at the head of 
one of the most popular and successful veterinary colleges 
in America, but whose name I am not at liberty to publish. 
To this authority I am indebted for the matter comprised 
in articles on Inflammation (page 746), Catarrh, Bronchitis, 
Chronic Cough, Inflammation of the Bladder, Indigestion, 
Diseases of the Eye, etc., etc., together with other matter 
referred to. I made such changes in, or additions to, this mat- 
ter, as well as added new treatment, as would make it most 
desirable for popular reference. I may mention also that 
I have been specially fortunate in securing many favorite 
prescriptions of great value from leading practitioners, for 
which I would gladly give credit if not debarred by special 
request. 

I especially desired to have the explanations of treatment 
free from technical terms, and so clear and plain that any 
one could understand without difficulty. I have made a 
special effort for this in the management of such diseases 
as are most dangerous and common. This will explain 
the reason for giving so much space, and the large number 
of illustrations to shoeing, spavins, navicular joint lameness, 
etc. 

As explained in the note to the chapter on shoeing, it 
will be found that Prof. E. A. McLeUan of Bridgeport, 
Conn., at present Lecturer on Shoeing and Diseases of the 
Foot in the Columbia Veterinary College, gave me valuable 
aid in that department, for which I would make him due 
acknowledgment. The extreme pressure of his professional 
demands only, prevented his giving me more especial 
assistance at the time, but which he kindly promised to 



14 INTRODUCTION. 

give me, if necessary, at some future time. Dr. McBeth 
of Battle Creek, Mich., has also rendered me much valua- 
ble assistance. 

The difficulties 1 encountered in making this work wiU 
be better understood by giving the simple facts, which it 
is hoped will be accepted as sufficient to excuse for whatever 
is faulty in its writing or arrangment : First, I am not a 
practical writer, and owing to serious cerebral inflammation 
I have not been able to write a single page of this book 
with my own hand, nor read any part of it for revision or 
correction. It has been dictated by me to a copyist, then 
read for revision, making the work extremely laborious and 
difficult. It will, however, be found to give in the most 
faithful manner, without any reserve whatever, all the 
points of my work more carefully and thoroughly than I 
could possibly do before a class. I desire emphatically to 
state that I do not keep back any secret whatever, and 
would further state that if I did not wish to make my 
system of treatment entirely accessible to the public, 
there are many single points herein published which I 
would not give for one hundred dollars ] but which, as any 
one must see by the remarkable results of my experiments, 
are invaluable to practical horsemen upon all classes of 
vicious horses ; so that by its instruction their subjection 
and management should be accomplished without difficulty. 

This work is not only the first of the kind published 
explaining the art of taming and educating horses, but it 
is the practical outgrowth of my own experience. In its 
writing I have not only aimed to give the fullest explana- 
tion OF MY PRINCIPLES AND METHODS of management, with all 
the details carefully classified, but as an additional aid I 
have included the details of treatment of nearly fifty of the 
most INTERESTING AND DIFFICULT cascs treated by me, giving 
age, color, cause of viciousness, etc. 



INTRODUCTION. 15 

It has been well known wherever I have traveled that 
I taught my system as a secret which I never gave in 
print; and on account of the great expense in traveling, 
requiring not only the aid of skilled men, hut from five to 
ten horses, to give me a reasonable compensation, I was 
compelled to charge five, and in some sections of country 
ten doUars for such instructions, thus putting them within 
the reach of but comparatively few. The importance, 
then, of making this knowledge available to all at a moderate 
cost, can be seen. 



After writiag this introduction, I incidentally find in a work 
called " The First Century, or One Hundred Memorable Events 
in the History of Our Country," by R. N. Devens, Esq., a chapter 
on John S. Rarey's achievements, which is so remarkable in the 
extravagance of its statements that I consider it necessary to refer 
here to the facts in the case. After the lapse of twenty years, 
when the method of treatment used by Rarey is not only known 
by every school-boy, but has practically gone into disuse, such 
statements from a man of Mr. Devens' reputation for historical 
accuracy as a writer, a brother of a former Postmaster General, a 
member of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and author of 
Appleton's Commercial and Business Encyclopedia, Lives of 
Washington, Napoleon, Wellington, etc., in a work of so impor- 
tant a character, by such an author as the one mentioned, it 
carries with it such unusual weight that it would naturally, if un- 
challenged, be accepted as indisputable authority. 

For the benefit of my readers, I will copy a few paragraphs 
in relation to Cruiser, to show the extreme perversion of facts 
when compared with the statements given under that head in 
another chapter of this book: — 

" Cruiser's habit, it appears, was to scream and yell when any 
one approached him, to smash up his stall into lucifer matches, and 
to attempt to bite and destroy every livuig thing in his neighbor- 
hood. Noblemen used to go and throw articles into his brick 
box, in order to see him fight. When he was to be fed or watered, 
the first proceeding with his groom was to ascertain, by thrusting 
a long pole in at the stable door, where the enemy stood, and then 



16 INTRODUCTION. 

to deposit the food, shut the door, and vanish as soon as possible. 
Mr. Rarey changed all this in a nhoment as it were: He ordered 
the stable door to be thrown open, introduced himself according to 
his system, without delay, and in half an hour the indomitable 
Cruiser might be ridden by a child, could listen tranquilly to the 
beating of a drum, and stand serene even if an umbrella were 
flourished in his face. Gentle as a lamb, he followed his teacher 
about the arena like a dog, stopping when he pointed his finger, 
lying down when he was told, rising again when he obtained 
permission, and doing all this in a mild, good-humored sort of 
way, as if the wish to oblige was the sole ruling motive, and that 
the now docile Cruiser was totally unaware of that terrible array 
of whips and spurs, bits and muzzles, with which his first teacher,", 
had sought to check his ferocity and bring him to reason. The 
speedy, easy, and complete success of Mr. Rarey, in this remarka- 
ble case, gave him, at once, the most flattering and exalted repu- 
tation from one end of Europe to the other. 

" On Mr. Rarey 's appearance at Niblo's in New York, he 
exhibited this renowned specimen of the equine race — an animal 
over sixteen hands high, and of immense bone and muscle — and 
said : ' When I went to England and exhibited there, the papers 
all said, "This is very well, but try Cruiser!" I immediately 
wrote to Lord Dorchester about the horse, and he replied that the 
horse could not be bi'ought to me, but that I must come to him. 
I did go to him. The horse had not been out of his box for three 
years ; a brick stable had to be built for him, and he would have 
been shot, but he was the last of a race of splendid blood-horses, 
and his owner was anxious to preserve him if possible. I found 
that by his biting and kicking he had so injured himself that he 
could not be taken out of his box, and so I had to wait for his 
recovery. I went down to see him, quietly and unknown, but 
somehow the papers got hold of it, and everybody said I dared 
not go near Cruiser.' Under these circumstances, Mr. Rarey was 
detained some three weeks, when he went to London accompanied 
by the now subdued steed. 

" The collar and muzzle which Cruiser used to wear were 
exhibited by Mi*. Rarey. His owner could place them upon him 
only by letting a rope down through the roof of his stall, fastening 
it under his neck, and raising him ofi" his fore feet. The exhibition 
at Niblo's Avas the first time Cruiser had been on the stage in 
A.m erica. 'We have,' said Mr. Rarey, 'had no rehearsal; but 
instead of kicking, as he used, he will now (as you see) give me 
his foot like a gentleman.' Two straps were now shown, being 
all that had been used in taming this horse. Mr. Rarey, on being 
asked to explain more particularly how he approached Cruiser, 
said : ' I think horses have a reason for everything they do. I 



INTRODUCTION. 17 

knew if I approached Cruiser with a stick, he would fight me, as 
he had fought others who came to whip him. In the box was a 
double door, so that I could open the upper half. I went quietly, 
opened the door noiselessly. Cruiser turned round, saw me, 
started back frightfully, but did not attempt to come at me. Ho 
came slowly up to smell of me after a while, and in spite of Lord 
Dorchester's entreaties, I stood still. Presently, when I saw 
that he stood naturally, I began to fondle him. Lord Dorchester 
begged me to tie his head, and I did so, but you never saw such 
fighting. Finding that he would either kill himself or tear down 
the box, I released him and began all over again. After he 
allowed me to fondle him, I took him into the straw-yard, and 
proceeded as with any other horse, until at last he would let me 
take any liberty with him, and Lord Dorchester mounted him 
with impunity.' Mr. Rarey declared that Cruiser was about as 
celebrated for his viciousness as he himself was' for taming him. 

" Appealing to the intellect and aifections of the horse, as the 
basis of his system of treatment, Mr. Rarey was enabled to say to 
his vast audience at Niblo's Garden, New York : ' I never had an 
accident since I became perfect in my system, and I don't fear 
any. I have been among horses since I was twelve years old, 
and at first had a great many accidents. Every limb has been 
broken but my right arm ; but being young when these accidents 
happened, the bones naturally healed strongly. Now I know 
horse.s' every thought, and can break any animal of whatever age 
and habits in the world. I can make any animal sensible of my 
power — make him gentle and even affectionate.' " 

According to these statements, Rarey was able to exhibit a de- 
gree of poAver over vicious horses that had never before or since 
been attained or even approached, making himself a landmark of 
genius and skill that could not be equalled, and that all this was 
accomplished by the use of two ordinary straps. 

The boldness of his claims, as thus set forth, deepens into 
audacity when they are examined in the light of the facts which 
I have been enabled to demonstrate, the full particulars of which 
will be found on pages 368-384 of this work. Much as I dislike 
to mar the posthumous reputation of any man, and especially one 
whose fame has been won in a field similar to that occupied by 
myself, I deem it an act of simple justice not only to myself and 
my many thousands of pupils in fifteen different States, but to my 
system of treatment, to expose the fallacy of Rarey's pretensions, 
especially in reference to Cruiser, on whose subjection more than 
any or all other of his feats his reputation was made. In the first 



18 INTRODUCTIOK. 

place, it is not true that Cruiser was not taken from his stable for 
three years, and that he would have been shot, etc., which is 
proved by the fact that he was let for breeding purposes at a 
rental of $500 per season, and was taken out almost daily, and 
controlled with but little real difSculty. He never was pulled up 
from the ground to have a collar put on him, nor did he ever wear 
an iron muzzle. Also, instead of going into his stable as stated, 
and controlling him so easily and successfully, the experiment 
was a failure. His control -was owing entirely to Mr, Goodenough's 
management, and by a method of treatment which, had it been. 
known at the time, would have utterly destroyed Rarey's reputa- 
tion or claims to success; hence the claim set up for his unusual 
inherent power, and for the system as being a perfect and com- 
plete method of subjection, falls to the ground. 

The additional fact that Cruiser and the other cases, when out 
of Rarey's hands, returned to their former vicious practices, and 
again became unmanageable, also demonstrates the fallacy of 
these claims, and proves conclusively that the horses were not 
subdued, except to a condition of temporary obedience, the ruling 
principle of which was fear. It is also apparent that the assump- 
tion of knowing a horse's every thought, and being able to subdue 
any horse or animal in the world, amounts to nothing, because, 
like the other pretensions, it was all assumed for effect. What he 
practiced, he learned of Denton Offutt, from whose book an inter- 
esting chapter will be found on pages 449 to 456. The writer vis- 
ited professionally every town in the vicinity of Groveport, Rar- 
ey's old home, and although he made the most diligent inquiry of 
old settlers, he found no one Avho claimed for Mr. Rarey any no- 
ticeable success in the control of horses, before going to Europe. 

The true key, which has been overlooked by Mr. Devens, and 
in fact all other writers on the subject, was the consummate good 
management exhibited by Mr. Goodenough, by which, as the first 
movement oa reaching England, permission was secured to exhibit 
before the queen and the royal family, even before they had dem- 
onstrated a right to such distinction. Their continued success in 
maintaining their hold upon the public opinion, was also due to 
the adroitness of Mr. G. in surmounting the difficulties which 
arose, and which so firmly established their claims in the public 
mind as to require, even at the present day, the most positive 
proofs to show their unreliability. 



INTRODUCTION. 19 

Nearly all my scholars of late years understood and practiced 
this method of treatment, and I was compelled, as a condition of 
satisfying them, to prove the superiority of my treatment. Then 
nearly every vicious horse brought forward to be experimented 
upon had been subjected in the most thorough manner to the 
method of treatment used by Rarey. The Wilkins horse of New 
York, case 6, Subjection; the Malone horse, case 2, Kicking; the 
stallion Jet, case 7, Subjection; with many others, though com- 
prising but few of the large number treated, were good illustra- 
tions. The Wilkins horse was treated for a week on this principle 
without doing any good whatever. He had been treated so much 
that the moment his foot was taken up he would lie down appar- 
ently gentle, but when again upon his feet, would become thor- 
oughly wicked again. The Malone horse had been subjected to 
it in the most thorough manner without avail. In the case of 
Jet, which was a particularly bad one, the treatment was equally 
inert, and had no effect at all upon him. The same might be 
said of hundreds of others treated by mo before my classes, or 
as special tests in the presence of experts, The quickness and 
complete success of the experiments, in these and other noted 
cases, are results which are conceded to have been shown by no 
one else in so short a time in the control of vicious horses, either 
in ancient or modern times. 

A feat that I performed almost daily, and which would have 
been utterly impossible to accomplish by the Rarey treatment, was 
the subjection of headstrong, unmanageable stallions, so that they 
would not only follow any one without restraint but, at a distance 
of ten feet, could be called away from a horse or mare. This appar- 
ently impossible feat I guaranteed to perform within ten minutes, 
with a forfeiture of one hundred dollars to the owner in case of 
failure. It is proper to add here that during the last few years, most 
of the experiments made before my classes were in part or wholly 
performed by my assistant. Not only this, but my scholars could 
readily do the same, and very many of the cases were fully as 
difficult to manage as those referred to. 



CHAPTER I. 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

In the subjection and education of horses we have 
three natural difficulties to oA^ercome. First : The horse 
is much stronger than man, and just so far as he learns 
in any way that he can resist his control, to that degree 




Fig. 1. —An intelligent, courageous, yet extremely sensitive nature. 
A sketch from life of a noted Arabian Horse. 

will he be encouraged to become unmanageable and vi- 
cious. Second : His methods of reasoning being limited to 
seeing, hearing, and feeling, to prevent his becoming ex- 
cited or frightened at objects and sounds with which he is 

(20) 



GENEEAL PEINCIPLES. 



21 




Fig. 3. 



-Ideal of an intelligent, docile 
character. 



brought in contact, he must be convinced of their innocent 
character by his own way of reasoning. Third : He 
cannot understand the 
meaning of language or 
words of command, ex- 
cepting so far as he is 
taught by associating 
them with actions ; con- 
sequently he cannot know 
what he is required to do 
unless shown and taught 
in a way he can compre- 
hend. 

Taking these condi- 
tions in order, we see, 
for example, that if a 

horse learns to pull away, break his halter, resist the 
blacksmith in shoeing, or run away, etc., he will be en- 
couraged to do 
so afterward, 
until the habit 
becomes fixed. 
On the con- 
trary, we see 
that when a 
colt is first hal- 
tered, no mat- 
ter how hard 
he may resist. 

Fig. 3.— Ideal of a sensitive, nervous character. AvheU OnCO 

forced to sub- 
mit he will not only follow readily without restraint, 




22 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 




but will continue to do so afterward ; also when the feet 
are taken up and handled until the operation is submitted 

to, or such restraint 
brought upon the 
mouth as to overcome 
the power of resist- 
ance, there will not 
only be submission 
for the time, but, if 
done properly, all in- 
clination to resist af- 
terward will be over- 
come. 

The principle is 
Fig. 4.- Sullen treachery. the Same in relation 

to other habits, or in overcoming viciousness. No matter 
how wild or vicious the horse may be, if so controlled thnt 
resistance becomes 
impossible, and his 
fear is overcome by 
kind treatment, 
there will not only 
be entire submis- 
sion without the 
use of power or re- 
straint, but he will 
remain so afterward 
if not abused or ex- 
cited. 

Second. We see 
that when an ob- 
ject or cause of unusual sound is brought suddenly or un 




Fig. 5. — Sketch from life of the most vicious 
Mustang Pony the writer ever saw. 



GENEEAL PEINCIPLES. 



23 



expectedly to his notice or in contact with his body, it is 

liable to excite the most intense fear or resistance, and 

of which he will ever 

afterward be afraid ; 

whereas if brought 

slowly and gently to 

his notice, letting him 

smell and feel of it, it 

can soon be brought 

over or around him 

without causing the 

least fear, or attracting 

his attention. It does 

not matter whether it 

is in driving to carriage, 

letting the crosspiece come across the quarters, raising an 

umbrella behind, or the noise of a steam-engine, etc., the 

effect is the same. 




Fig. 6. — Sketch from life. Good illustration 
of a vicious, treacherous nature. 




f'f '/ J ' 

\SI- III 

Fig. 7. — The Hilman Horse, "Jet." A noted vicious Stallion. 

Third. In relation to teaching the meaning of sounds 
or words of command. It is evident that if a man were to 
sit on a block and simply repeat the word " whoa " to a 
horse, he might do it indefinitely without teaching him its 



24 



METHODS OF SUBJECTI0:N". 




meaning. But if the horse were moved moderately, and 
immediately after the command he were pulled uj)on suffi- 
ciently hard to 
make him stop, 
he will, after a 
ffii /ife'''''^%T^''^^ few repetitions, 

i.^'.*?*^ learn to stop at 

command, to 
avoid being 
j)ulled upon. Or 
in teaching to 
back, if, after 
the command is 
given, the reins 
are pulled upon 

Fig. 8.— ^Naturally docile and intelligent. S U ffi C i 6 n 1 1 V to 

force him back, he will, after a few repetitions, soon learn 
to back freely when the word is given, to avoid the hurt 
of being pulled upon. To explain this principle more fully 
I will give the 
details of teach- 
ing a few tricks : 
If it is desired 
to teach a horse 
to make a bow, 
first prick him 
lightly on the 
back with a pin, 
and repeat until 
in his effort to 
avoid the annoy- 
ance he drops his 




Fig. 9.—" Wild Pete." A very peculiar and 
interesting case. 



GBNEEAL PEmCIPLES. 



25 



head; then instantly stop the prickmg and caress hmi. 
Repeat the pricking until the head is again dropped ; then 
caress him, and ,,^— 

give him some- , ^'' 



^'^ 




f'- ' /^' <' I'l V V*" 7*/^ i^ 





Fig. 10. — The AUegau Man-eater. 



thing of which 
he is fond. 
Continue to al- 
ternate in this 
way with the 
pricking and 
caressing until 
at the instant 
a motion is 
made toward the back he will drop his head. 

To teach to kick up, simply prick him on the rump 
until there is an inclination to kick up, when, as before, stop 

and caress him. 
So repeat until 
the least motion 
toward the rump 
will induce him 
to kick up. 

In teaching 
any kind or 
number of tricks 
the principle is 
precis ely the 
same, the differ- 
ence being that instead of a pin, other means suitable to 
the requirements of the case must be used. 

Now, to teach these tricks by word, it will be neces- 
sary to repeat the command and associate the act with it; 




Fig. 11. — Sketch of a noted vicious Stallion. 



26 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 




that is, " make a bow," " kick," etc., in connection with 
the signal of whatever trick is being taught, until there is 

obedience. An im- 
portant point in teach- 
ing tricks is to guard 
against confusing or 
exciting the horse ; 
therefore but one trick 
must be taught at a 
time, and that slowly 
and carefully repeated 
until thoroughly un- 
derstood. Then an- 

FiG. 12.— strong willed, intelligent character. other trick is to be 

taken up, and so on. At each progressive step review the 
previous tricks until any trick demanded will be promptly 
performed. The duller the horse the less can be attempted, 
and the more time must be 
given, while the more intel- 
ligent the horse, the more 
can be done and taught. To 
have prompt obedience at 
the command, the exact sig- 
nal and word given in teach- 
ing the trick must be re- 
peated, even the tone or 
pitch of the voice, otherwise 
the horse will not know what 

is wanted of him, and he ^^^- l^- Bamyara Lunkhead. 

will become confused, and consequently unable to obey. 

The principle is the same in teaching a horse to do 
anything in or out of harness, the difference being that 




GBNEEAL PEINCIPLES. 



27 




such means as will give more power of control must be 
used. Now the point of real interest, and the one to which 

I wish to call special attention in 
this connection, is that the prin- 
ciple is precisely the same in ei- 
ther overcoming or preventing vi- 
-V ciousness or bad habits of any 
* * character. The only difference is 
that instead of teaching a trick 
we now combat the habit or vi- 
ciousness already formed, simply 
repeating until there is entire do- 
cility. 

Fig. 14.— Docile, intelligent. jf a man Were stroiig euough 

to take a fighting "bully" by the shoulder and shake him 
so thoroughly as to show him he had power to control him 
as he pleased, and then treat him kindly, it would have a 
better effect in convincing him of his mastery and make 

him less inclined to 

resist, than if he 
had controlled him 
after a desperate 
struggle of half an 
hour or more, that 
would necessarily 
greatly strain or in- 
jure him physic- 
ally. Or if the con- 
test were carried on 
in the presence of others, where his pride would be greatly 
stimulated, or under circumstances that would arouse his 
bad nature, he would allow himself to be punished most 
severely before he would submit. 




Fig. 15. — A noted vicious Horse. 



2S 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 




Fig. 1(). — Sketch of a noted vicious Horse. 



On the same principle, if a man could catch and hold a 
horse, or control him as he wished, so as to completely 

prevent his struggling and 
becoming excited and 
heated, until the muscles 
are entirely relaxed and 
he becomes submissive, 
and then win his confi- 
dence by kind treatment, 
scratching the mane, gi^'- 
ing apples, etc., it would 
be the most efficient kind 
of subjection. But as 
there is not power to do 
this, we must resort to 
such means or methods of management as will come as near 
it in principle as we can. In doing this, if the horse were 
given such freedom as 
to encourage his confi- 
dence to resist, or his 
bad nature were called 
out by ignorant, abusive 
treatment, in like man- 
ner he would, in the fury 
of his madness, resist 
with the greatest per- 
severance, regardless of 
even the most severe 

punishment. Then ^'^- l^— Expression of vicious, bad nature. 

again, the resistance, whatever it may be, is only a symp- 
tom of the real cause to be overcome, which proceeds from 
a condition of the brain, or the impression made upon it. 




GENEEAJj PEINCIPLES. 



29 



On this account, controlling physical resistance becomes but 
a temporary bridge across a gulf to enable building the real 
structure. So subjection is but a means for reaching the 
brain to remove the exciting cause of the resistance. If 
stimulated by fear, then to show there is no cause for fear ; 
if through real viciousness, then to remove the resentment 
by kind treatment ; when the horse's reason can be molded 
and instructed in any channel desired. 

The next difficulty is the 
different degrees of resist- 





FiG. 18.— Vicious. 



Fig. 19. — Treacherous. 

ance to be met with in different 
horses. A dozen horses may break 
the halter or kick. One may be broken of the habit 
quite easily, another may resist ten times as long, while 
the third may even require hours of treatment, the differ- 
ence being in the pecularity of character and temperament. 
The better to aid in explaining these conditions, I present 
a large number of representative heads, with some refer- 
ences to aid in determining the treatment to be employed, 
and which should be studied carefully. An important con- 
dition also is to guard against possible accidents, because 
this would defeat the very end for which the treatment is 
intended. For more particular reference, see part follow- 
ing "Medicine" in chapter on "Subjection." 



30 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



I give three direct methods of subjection, followed by 
several indirect methods. The first is based upon the 
principle of disabling and throwing. So far as we disable 
any part of the horse's body, we produce to that degree a 
sense of helplessness in him. So when we disable the 
whole body, or overmatch the power of the horse wholly, 
we create in him a powerful impression of our mastery 
and a corresponding sense of his own helplessness. 

The method given of throwing a horse, called the 

FiKST Method of Subjection, 
Is the .simplest and most effective form based upon this 




Fig. 20. — Leather Throwing Rig. 



principle, and is the outgrowth of a great deal of practical 
experimenting. 

There are two rigs here given ; one of leather, and one 
of rope. The Leather Rig works well, is not difficult to fit, 
but is troublesome to make, and expensive, costing from 
eight to fifteen dollars. The Rope Rig works equally weU, 
and can be made of any old rope in a few minutes, at a 
merely nominal cost. For the first, or Leather Rig, the sur- 



FIEST METHOD OF SUBJECTION. 31 

cingle should be made of two thicknesses of good harness 
leather, about three inches wide, and about eight or ten 
inches longer than the circumference of the body. The 
buckle should haA^e two tongues, and be made of good 
wrought iron. When this rig is on and drawn tightly from 
the part over the back bone, a double strap, the length of 
the back, with a strong crupper, should be attached. Four 
or five inches on the off side, should be fastened at the 
front edge of this surcingle a strong two-inch ring. On 
the opposite edge should be attached another strap extend- 
ing to a ring upon the back strap at the hip. A little pad 
should be fixed to the part coming across the back, to pre- 
vent bruising or chafing it. 




Fig. 21. Simple Rope Big. 

To make the Rope Rig, procure a three-fourths-inch rope, 
eighteen or twenty feet in length. One that has been 
used enough to render it pliable is best. Make a simple 
loop about three inches long at one end, and double the 
rope about four feet from the loop. Pass over this doubled 
part a three-inch ring made of three-eighths rod. Measure 
the distance from the tail to where the saddle of the har- 
ness comes, to which bring the ring and make a sim- 
ple knot of both ropes around it, regulating it to the 



82 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



length of the back as it is tightened. Next, put the 
double part under the tail, twist two or three times, and 
bring the part with the ring to its place about eight inches 
to the right of the back, with the loop 




Fig. 22.— Foot tied up. Em. 23.— Foot Strap. 

toward the near side. While holding it in position, reach 
under the body, catch the opposite end of the rope, bring 




Fig. 24. — The Eig as arranged for throwing. 

it through the loop, and draw down to the size of the 
body. Make a simple knot in the rope, which forms a 
i)utton and keeps it from slipping out. It is also necessary 
to protect the back and tail by winding the part of the 



FIEST METHOD. 33 

rope coming under the tail, and putting two or three 
thicknesses of cloth or blanket between it and the back. 

Next, put on a strong strap halter with the nose part 
coming well down, and draw it up rather close back of the 
jaw ; then take a piece of strong cord, from five-sixteenths 
to three-eighths of an inch in diameter and about twenty feet 
in length, tie a hard knot in each end, and fasten one end 




Fig. 25, — Turning a stubborn Horse around before throwing. 

around the rope or surcingle just above the ring. Pass 
the other end, from above, down over the strap of the hal- 
ter back of the jaw, thence back and down through the 
ring referred to, until the slack is taken up. Now tie up 
the near forefoot. The best way to do this is to pass an 
ordinary hame strap around the foot, thence to the belly- 
band, and buckle short. 

Though this method, when properly used, enables throw- 



34 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



ing a horse on even very hard ground without bruising the 
knees or other parts, still it is very important, and adds 
greatly to the ease of throwing to have good soft ground. 
The best is that which is free from stone, with thick, soft 
sod, as an orchard or meadow, a ploughed field, or a place 
liberally covered with straw or manure. Presuming that 
such a place has been selected, stand almost in front of the 




Fig. 26. — Usual position of a Horse that resists strongly before being thrown. 

horse at the right, have a firm hold of the cord about seven 
or eight feet from the shoulder, and pull gently, but firmly. 
This will draw the head back to the side, and the body being 
thereby thrown out of balance, the horse is forced to fall 
over with a rolling motion on his side. If during the first 
trial he resists, let him have his own way a little while, and 
when in a good position, pull quickly, and he can be easily 
forced off his balance and made to fall over. If a strong- 



FIEST METHOD. 35 

willed, headstrong fellow, disposed to resist hard, perhaps 
lunging forward, etc., as some horses are liable to do, take 
a firm hold of the cord and run around in a circle until he 
is made to follow, hopping steadily (as shown by cut 25), 
then stop, pull quickly, and he will be easily thrown over 
•upon his side. (See cuts 27 and 29.) As soon as the cord 
is slacked he will jump up, but by repeating as before he 
will again be thrown. Simply repeat the throwing as long 




■ Fig. 27. — As the Horse will usually fall. 

as the horse will get up. If he does not attempt to rise 
after being once thrown, stand behind him, keeping firm 
hold of the cord, and strike the belly with the hand or 
touch him with the whip, to incite hini to jump up ; and 
on the instant of his doing so, pull quickly upon the cord, 
which will again roll him back helplessly upon his side. 

If the horse is sensitive upon the belly, quarters, or 
the feet, while down and forced to yield, first touch the 
parts with a pole until he will submit to it, then with the 



36 



METHODS OP SUBJECTION. 



hand until there is no incentive to resistance shown by the 
muscles becoming relaxed ; after which he should be al- 




FiG. 38. — Type of sullen character upon which this method will fail. 

lowed to get up, and the handling or touching repeated 
until submitted to on his feet. Sometimes it is necessary 
to reverse the treatment, and throw the horse on the op- 




FiG. 29. — Position of the Horse when down. 



posite side, before he will be entirely submissive ; but af- 
ter being thrown to the extent of making him lie down 
submissively, it will do no good to repeat the treatment. 



FIEST METHOD. 3*7 

If the impression produced is not sufficient to break up 
the horse's confidence and prevent a repetition of the habit, 
whatever it is, the treatment is a failure in his case. For 
example, if the horse is a kicker, and persists in kicking 
after the full extent of the treatment, it should be aban- 
doned ; but if the habit is given up after several times 
throwing, and he sbbmits unconditionally, it is the right 
treatment for him, and all, in a general way, that is needed. 




Fig. 30. — Kolling the Horse back when struggling to rise. 

On the other hand, if the horse drops or lies down submis- 
sively, refusing to get up when touched or handled, it will 
fail. It should not be used upon nervous, irritable, un- 
broken colts, especially those showing a wild, sulky, or 
mustang nature, as they are liable, as soon as the leg is 
tied up, to lunge, or when pulled upon to throw themselves 
recklessly or suUenly down. For the subjection of such 
cases, and all colts, balkers, and horses bad to shoe, har- 
ness, clean, or ride, it is not so good as the Second Method. 
It is most valuable when used in connection with the other 
methods. In some cases of nervous character, if the horse 



S8 METHODS OP SUBJECTION. 

can be safely thrown once, rolling him back, as shown above, 
until there is submission, will have a good effect. 



Fig. 31. — The Horse subdued. 

Second Method of Subjection. 

If one were to turn around rapidly a few times, he 
would become dizzy. Were he to suddenly reverse the 
motion, the effect would be so intensified as to cause fall- 
ing. The effect is the same upon the horse, and gives al- 
most unlimited power in the control of wild, nervous, vi- 
cious, kicking, runaway horses. 

I once had such a horse brought to me to experiment 
upon before a class. He was a nervous, kicking, runaway 
horse of the worst character. When hitched to a buggy, 
he became frightened, kicked, and ran away, tearing the 
buggy to pieces. He was so desperately afraid of a wagon 
that ho could not be put in shafts or even brought near 



SECOND METHOD. 



89 



them. After working upon him for two hours, aided by 
members of the class, and resorting to every device in my 
power for his control, I completely failed. I was nettled, 
yet bound to succeed, but "How?" was the question. At 
this juncture I happened to think that turning around 
quickly several times in succession caused extreme dizzi- 
ness and helplessness. 

The question followed, "If I could make the horse turn 




Fig. 32. — Method of tying halter to the tail. 

around rapidly, why could I not neutralize and overcome 
his resistance in this way?" I remembered having once 
seen a dog in play catch his tail in his mouth and run 
around, and it occurred to me that by tying the horse's 
head to his tail he would possibly turn himself around. I 
did so, as shown in cut 32, and to my surprise and satis- 
faction he went around rapidly, and in a short time fell 
over, dazed and helpless. Soon recovering, he jumped up, 
turned rapidly as before, and again fell over. In course 



40 



METHODS OF SUBJECTIOK. 



of a few moments lie fell over three times. (See cut 34) 
As before explained, he was extremely nervous and afraid 




Fig. 33. — Powerful effect of the treatment shown by the Horse staggering 
to the point of falling when quickly untied. 

of being touched ; so as he went around, I brought the 
pole against his quarters until he was submissive to it. 




Tig. 34. — Position in which the Horse falls confused and helpless 
when turned too quickly. 



SECOND METHOD. 



41 



The experiment proved a most wonderful success, as it en- 
abled me to do in about ten minutes what was utterly im- 
possible for me to do before in two hours, and with the 
aid of several men. I had, in fact, by the mere circum- 
stance of failure made one of the most important discover- 
ies that had yet been made in the art of taming horses. 

This method is wonderfully effective in the subjection 
of colts and vicious horses, especially those of a certain 




Fig. 35, — Method of holding the strap while going 
around with a doubtful case. 

class of temperament, and in breaking single balkers. 
When combined with the other treatment, it makes easy 
and simple the control of horses it would be both difficult 
and dangerous to subdue without. For example, a wild, 
dangerous colt, mustang, or vicious mule, which it would 
be perilous to try to confine with straps or other rigging, 
with the aid of a simple halter, can be brought under con- 
trol in a few minutes. Or if in any case this is not suffi- 
cient to compel entire submission, it will always give suffi- 



42 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

cient advantage to subject safely to the other methods of 
treatment. 

I will name this the Second Method of Subjection. The 
conditions to be observed in its application are as follows : 
First : Select a soddy place in a field or yard free from 
stones, stumps, or sharp fence corners. The place should 
not be too soft, such as a deeply ploughed field, barn-yard 
manure, or deep straw. Heavy sod with considerable grass 
is the best. Second : If there are sharp shoes on the feet. 




Fig. 36. — The sullen colt as he will usually stand refusing to turn when tied. 

they should be removed before subjecting to this treatment; 
to neglect this would endanger calking or cutting the feet 
badly. Third : A strap halter should always be used. 
After catching the tail, take the strap of the halter between 
the teeth to enable the use of both hands, and tie the hair 
of the tail into a knot. Divide the hair above the knot, 
pass the strap through, and tie into a half-hitch knot. The 
strap should be drawn just short enough to compel the 
horse to turn fast enough to divert his attention (something 
as in cut 32) and make him helpless, but not so short as to 



SECOND METHOD. 



43 



cause him to fall. The more nervous and excitable the 
subject, the longer the strap must be left at first ; and the 
colder-blooded, the shorter must it be drawn. If at all 
doubtful as to the length, when the strap is run through 
the tail hold it in the hand and go around with him a few 
times (as in cut 35) so that the necessary length can be 
exactly ascertained, then quickly tie into a half-hitch knot 
and let go. If tied the right length, the horse will keep 




Fig. 37. — A vicious colt as he will usually strike when the pole 
is brought near his nose while turning. 

moving in a circle as described ; but if tied too short, or 
forced up to the point of falling, the moment he staggers 
pull quickly upon the end of the strap which will pull it 
loose, and tie again the required length. 

Sulky or cold-blooded colts, if tied very short at first, 
are liable to throw the head against the nose-piece of the 
halter, and if pushed are likely to rear up and fall over 
backward. This can be easily prevented by holding the 



44 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. . 

strap as before up near the tail with one hand and the part 
near the head with the other, and going around with him 
a few times until he is dizzy ; then tie quickly and let go. 
Motion toward the head while passing, and so continue un- 
til he moves steadily. 

Now take a pole or rake handle about eight or ten feet 
long, and bring it gently against the legs or parts of the 
horse most sensitive, until there is complete submission to 




Fig. 38. — A vicious Horse as he will usually kick when touched 
with pole while turning. 

it. This he will usually resent by kicking violently. Sim- 
ply continue until all inclination to resist is overcome, so 
that after being untied the muscles are so relaxed that the 
feet can be taken up and handled without his showing the 
least resistance. Sometimes a young horse or colt will 
start all right, but when tested will not go sufficiently fast to 
enable his control. Under such circumstances, while mov- 
ing touch sharply with a whip across the nose, and repeat 
untU he is forced up to the point desired to compel submis- 



SECOND METHOD. 



45 



sion. The point is to bring the brain to a certain point of 
inactivity and hold it there until he is helpless and sub- 
missive. ^ 
I soon learned by experience that by turning one way 
only, the impression upon the brain after a certain point 
diminished with the continuance of the turning ; and that 
to maintain the effect it was necessary to turn the horse 
much faster, and even then, after a time, it would become 




Fig. 39. — The first indication of submission — submitting to be poled. 

inert. To remedy this, I reversed the action by tying in 
the opposite direction, Avhich not only greatly increased 
the effect but enabled me to repeat the treatment with suc- 
cess to any extent. In many bad cases the horse should 
be turned one way up to the verge of falling, then quickly 
reversed, at the same time poling as before explained. It 
is necessary imder such circumstances to watch carefully 
so as to be able at the instant there is any indication of 
falling, to prevent it by pulling the strap loose. The more 



46 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. • 



frequent and quickly the reversing and turning, the better 
the effect. In some cases it must be repeated rapidly 
three, four, five, and even six times before it will be suc- 
cessful. To do this successfully requires care and quick- 
ness, and the horse should not be given freedom to run 
against anything. After the horse has submitted, he should 
be thoroughly poled all over, the feet handled, etc., until 
there is entire indifference to it, then untied, and the same 




Fig. 40. — Taking up the colt's foot while tied — one of the tests in 
determining his submission. 

handling repeated. If the treatment has been properly 
carried out, there should be no difficulty at this point in 
the handling, poling, mounting, etc. 

This method of subjection is the simplest, the most hu- 
mane and effective, all things considered, that has yet been 
discovered. It not only diverts the horse's brain from act- 
ing, but matches his strength so perfectly against itself, 
that he can be made entirely helpless without producing 
any pain or injury. It will effect the entire subjection 



SECOND METHOD. 



47 



and docility of the average of the worst of wild, unbroken 
colts in from five to fifteen minutes, so that they can be 
ridden, have the feet handled, or allow anything to come 
against the quarters. (See cut 41). It gives, in connection 
with the War Bridle, the true key for breaking single balk- 
ers. It is singularly well adapted for supplementing the 
other methods, and effecting the control of extremely vicious 
horses that have partially or wholly resisted the other meth- 
ods. It is also the safest and best method of treatment for 




Fig. 41. — Method of testing after beiug untied. 

the subjugation of extreme cases bad to ride, bridle, have the 
head handled ; also those which have the habit of striking. 

It will not work well upon kicking, switching mares^ 
and colts of a slow, cold-blooded, sulky nature. There may 
also occasionally be found horses of quick, nervous, but de- 
cidedly determined character, that wiU at first seem to re- 
sist it, or fall down too quickly. The Third Method should 
be used for a short time upon such, to tone down their im= 
petuousness, after Avhich they will usually submit to this 
method without difficulty. 

Though compelled almost daily to subject all kinds of 



48 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



horses to this treatment in small barns and other unsuita- 
ble places, and surrounded by a crowd of men^, by being 
careful I never had a serious accident occur. Of course, 
in a field or open yard the danger would be immeasurably 
diminished. Still I think it my duty to advise the greatest 




Fig. 4:2. — One of the tests frequently given by the writer in proving the effect 

of the treatment upon a notably vicious case, when making 

experiments before his class. 

care to prevent accident. By going slowly at first, and fol- 
lowing up cautiously, there can seldom be an accident. 

Third Method of Subjection. 

It is well known that by hitting a horse at a certain 
point back of the ear, it is easy to knock him down ; 
also if a horse were to throw himself over backward and 
hit this part on a hub or stone, he would be liable to be 
killed. At the front part of the atlas bone, or the first of 
the cervical vertebra, where it articulates into the occipital 
bone, or back part of the head, about an inch of the spinal 



THIED METHOD. 



49 




cord is not covered with bone. If a knife or other sharp 
instrument were driven down at this point sufficiently to 
penetrate it, it would 
cause instant death. By 
bringing gentle but firm 
pressure upon this part, 
we have one of the most 
safe and reliable methods 
of subjection known. It 
is, however, like the other 
methods, especially fitted 
to a certain class of dis- 
position and habit, not in- 
frequently making it easy 
to subdue horses upon 
which the other methods 
have failed ; such as nerv- 
ous-tempered, courageous, strong-willed horses that will not 
bear excitement or any freedom that would heat the blood. 
It is a method of treatment that must be used with great 
care and judgment. It is easy, of course, to put on press- 
ure, but the point is to use it on cases for which it is 
suited, and adapt it to conditions. Not enough pressure, 
or applying it carelessly, would cause failure, while too 
much pressure, or if continued too long, would not only be 
abuse, but dangerous to life. 

I found by experience that by pulling sharply upon a 
horse with the "Second Form of War Bridle," which 
brings the force of the pull upon this point, would often so 
unnerve and break up his confidence that, though pre- 
viously he could not be touched around the feet or body, 
he would now submit to it unconditionally. Also putting 



Fig. 43 — Method of applying the cord to 
put on pressure. 



50 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 




the center of a cord under the bridle so as to rest upon this 
point, and bringing both ends through the rings of the bit 

and carrying back 
for reinSj would usu- 
ally make the horse 
drive in a short time 
to a slack rein. 

I was not, how- 
ever, led to make 
any special effort to 
study out the key 
of this principle of 
subjection until in a 
chance way I heard 

Fig. 44. — Holding cord when through the mouth. ^ man who in 

breaking colts brought a cord moderately tight two or three 
times around the head. This, with the remembrance of the 
effects before referred to, led me to experiment carefully 
with a cord in this way, but found it gave but little more 
power of control than a common war bridle, and I aban- 
doned its use. At the time, I carried canvas, visiting only 
large centers, which gave me all the opportunity I wished 
for using the First and Second Methods, and I rarely found 
a horse that would not submit to these methods. One day, 
however, a vicious, kicking mare was brought in that re- 
sisted my regular treatment • for, once warming up in har- 
ness, she would kick in spite of all that could be done. I 
was led instinctively to try the effect of extreme pressure, 
and, without stopping to reason upon the matter, kept on 
winding the cord until I used nearly one hundred feet of 
hard, well-stretched cord. 1 let her stand about fifteen min- 
utes, when upon trial 1 found her perfectly submissive. I 



THIED METHOD. 51 

told the man I did not know what the after effect would be, 
and if it injured her in any way to report to me. Two 
weeks later he informed me that she was broken of the 
habit, and all right. Although this mare had 
resisted the other methods, she was of the ex- 
act temperament to submit easily to this 
treatment. 

This success induced me to try the effect 
of severe pressure upon other cases, for the 
purpose of learning how much pressure should 
be used, and the limit to which it could be 
safely carried. I found this to be governed 
in a great measure by the character of the 
horse. Ordinary cases could bear a pressure 
of three cords, or a little over sixty feet, and 
would submit in from five to fifteen minutes, 
while some extreme cases of courage and pluck 
could bear the pressure of a hundred feet or ^'^^- 45.— cord 

^^ 11 T . when on. 

more equally well, and m some very excep- 
tional cases even a much longer time. In one case of a 
wonderfully tough, plucky mare, as an experiment the 
pressure was left on nearly an hour, when she fell down 
helplessly, but upon removing the cord she quickly recov- 
ered, and so far as I could judge, without sustaining injury. 
I learned to use on an average from seventy to eighty-five 
feet, drawn more or less tightly, and leaving it on a longer 
or shorter time, according to the resistance shown. 

I did not give this method to classes, but held it as a 
reserve until after my experiments in New- York in 1872. 
The simplest and best way of applying it is as follows : 
Take a small, firmly wound, smooth hemp cord about five- 
sixteenths of an inch in diameter and from twenty to 




52 



METHODS OP SUBJECTION. 




twenty-four feet long. (Finding it difficult to get cord of 
the proper size, strength, and smoothness, I have been com- 
pelled to have it manufac- 
tured for me especially for 
the purpose, and can supply 
orders by mail at a reason- 
able price.) Tie a hard knot 
at one end, and a loose tie or 
knot about eighteen or twenty 
inches from this end. Bring 
around the neck and slip the 
end knot through the loose 

Fig. 46.— Touching the Horse's quarters tie aS for first form of War 
with pole while the cord Is on. 

Bridle. Stand a little in front 
and left of the head, bring the cord through the mouth and 
pass it over the head where the halter rests, pulling down 
gently ; thence through the mouth again and hold firmly 
with the left hand, while with the right it is again passed 
over the head and 



pulled down as before. 

(See cuts 43, 44.) So 

repeat to the end of 

the cord, winding not 

very tightly. Always 

use care to bring it 

over the tongue so as 

not to tangle or bruise 

it. Now take another 

cord and tie to the first 

one, so that when 

pulled down the knot will come on either side of the head, 

not at the top, or in the mouth. Draw this cord as tightly 




Fig. 47. — Manner in which some horses kick 
when touched with pole. 



THIED METHOD. 



53 




as thought necessary for the case, and continue to wind 
until three or four cords are used, according to the degree 
of resistance to be con- 
trolled. Unless in a small 
place where there is not 
sufficient room to run 
around, attach a strap or 
cord to two or three of 
those around the head and 
hold by it, or tie to a hitch- 
ing-post. 

The principle involved 

is that the greater the Fig. 48.— Manner in wWch a vicious Horse 
, n ^ -Ti T will kick when touched with pole. 

strength oi will and power 

of resistance on the part of the horse, the more cord must 
be used, the tighter it must be drawn, and the longer it 
must be left on. In no case, if put on very tightly, should 

it be left on longer than 

thirty minutes, while the 

average time for ordinary 

cases should not be more 

than from six to fifteen 

minutes. It should not 

be put on carelessly or 

indifferently, nor should 

attention be drawn from 

it one moment until it is 

again removed. 

Success will now greatly depend upon the advantage 

taken while using this treatment, as it will practically do 

no good to put on pressure and do nothing more. For ex- 




FiG. 49.— Submitting to the pole after 
being subdued. 



54 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



ample : If a kicker in harness, while the pressure is on take 
a small pole or rakestale and bring against the legs and 
quarters, as shown in cuts 46, 47, 48, 49. This will usu- 
ally be violently resisted by kicking. If after reasonable 
effort there is not submission to it, it may be advisable to 
increase the pressure by winding a little tighter or adding 
more cord. 

The central point of observation now should be the 




Fig. 50. — Manner in which some extremely vicious horses will 
resist by jumping when subjected to pressure. 

horse's eye. So long as there is fire in the eye and the 
ears are thrown back, no matter whether the horse kicks 
or not, it is an evidence that he is fighting hard and the 
pressure must be kept on. On the contrary, when there is 
a general ceasing of resistance, the eye softened in its ex- 
pression as if going to sleep, the breathing accelerated, 
panting-like, and especially if there is rapid sweating, it is 
sure evidence of unconditional submission. To keep on 
pressure any longer would not only be entirely unneces- 
sary, but abusive. These indications are unfailing, and 



THIRD METHOD. 



55 



tlie cord must at once be removed. Commence unwinding, 
repeating the poling from time to time, until the cord is 
wholly removed from the head. Then turn the last cord 
into first form of "War Bridle," with the control of which 
any resistance can be restrained. Repeat the poling as be- 
fore on both sides, and against the quarters, to test his do- 
cility, as shown by cut 49. 

It is invariably a good sign of submission, when the 
pressure is removed, to have the horse take a long breath 




Fig. 51. — As some desperately vicious horses will throw themselves 
wheu subjected to pressure. 

and also to sweat freely. The treatment must now be car- 
ried out for driving as directed in chapter on " Kicking." 
If bad to shoe, while the pressure is on, attach a rope 
or strap to the foot and pull back and forward, as in cut 
55, until submissive to it, and the toe rests upon the 
ground. The cords should then be immediately taken oft 
•the head, and the last one turned into the first form of War 
Bridle, to be used if necessary. All good subjects for this 
treatment will resist hard at first, and make a determined 
fight, but when they do give up, will be found entirely sub- 



56 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



dued ; while those that do not resist when touched while 
the pressure is on, are, as a rule, not good subjects for it. 

This method of subjection reveals the horse's character 
exactly, whatever it is. If one of great courage and spirit, 
he will usually resist at first with great fury while under 
the treatment, but finally submit unconditionally. But if 
of a sullen, treacherous nature, while the pressure is on he 
will often stand sullenly, doing nothing. In such cases the 




Fig. 53. — The Horse as he stands when subdued. 

Second Method must be depended upon, in connection with 
the other treatment. 

The success with which some kickers can be subdued 
and broken of the habit by this method, is remarkable. It 
is especially adapted to the subjection of courageous, de- 
termined, sensitive horses, that will not bear excitement or 
heating of the blood. It also works well upon biting, 
striking, vicious stallions, especially when used in connec- 
tion with the other methods. It works extremely well 
upon mules, seldom requiring more than ten minutes to 
subdue even those of a very vicious character. 



THIRD METHOD. 



57 




Cases upon which it will not work well, and for which 
it should not he used, are young, unbroken colts, sulky, 
cold-blooded horses, and, once in a great while, a class of 

high-strung, sensitive horses of 
great courage and endurance, that 
become excited, strike, and resist 
hard. Such cases are, however, 
somewhat rare. If it must be 
used upon such, let it be after 
subjecting to the First or Second 
Methods, or both. 

The reason this method should 
not be used upon colts, is that 

Fie. 53.-Mouth as usually kept ^. ^^ ^^^^^ ^^^.^^ ^^_ 

open ■when cord is on. "^ ^ ^ 

tempt to put on the cord, or bite 
and chew upon it to a degree that will bruise or cut the 
cheeks, which is very troublesome to treat. (See cut 54.) 
Besides, colts can be controlled so much easier and better 
by the Second Method that 
there is no necessity for using it 
upon them. There may occa- 
sionally be found an old horse 
that will bite upon the cord like 
colts. In all such cases the treat- 
ment must at once be abandoned, 
and dependence placed upon the 
other methods. Those that cut 
or bruise the cheeks are usually 
of a surly, obstinate nature, the 
sullen disposition being denoted by the small, clear eye, 
set well back on the side of the head, eyebrows rather 
heavy, fullness below the eye, and small nostrils. When 




Fig 54. — Appearance of mouth 
when biting upon the cord. 



58" 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



excited, they are very sullen, and indifferent to pain or con- 
trol. I would add that the average of horses will keep the 
mouth open when subjected to this treatment, without at- 
tempting to bite (as in cut 53). In an extensive practice 
of many years, I have found no means of protection worth 
the trouble of using. 

This method of subjection is so arbitrary that for along 
time I have felt unwilling to publish or give it to my classes, 




^^J^f^^^' 



Fig. 55. — Pulling the foot back — bad to shoe. 

fearing they would abuse it. With anything like ordinary 
care, it is not at all difficult to determine the cases for which 
it is suitable, and to avoid needless abuse by it. When 
properly used, it is not only entirely safe, but not at all 
objectionably severe. It is always advisable, before apply- 
ing this treatment, to look the horse over in a general way. 
If a nervous, excitable, coltish-acting fellow, that has, per- 
haps, been seriously frightened by carelessness or accident, 
the Second Method may first be used. Should this fail, or 
not produce satisfactory results, then this method may be 
tried. First bring the cord through the mouth once, and 



THIED METHOD. 



59 




*FiG. 56. Pulling head of a vicious horse around to 

avoid his fore feet should he strike, and observing 

that the cord comes right in the mouth. 



pull down rather 
tight. Should this 
he submitted to, it 
is safe to proceed ; 
but if he strikes vi- 
olently, or resists, 
showing a disposi- 
tion to bite upon ^t 
the cord, especially y^ 
after two or three \{i^ 
cords have been 
used, it had bet- 
ter be abandoned 
and other treat- 
ment used. Or if 
it is desired to subject the horse to the First Method first, 
and the rig cannot be put on with safety, subject to the 

Second Method for 
afew moments, then 
resort to the First, 
after which the ini- 
pression can be 
fixed by this. 

The First Method 
cannot be repeated 
with much assur- 
ance of success. If 
the horse will not 
get up after being 
thrown, you have accomplished all that it will do<, Also 







^rr- 



^7 y'^ ^Ir ^/' 

*FiG. 57. — Looking at the opposite side to see that 

the cord comes right, and determining the 

amount of pressure necessary. 



*The above cuts were un.ivoidably omitted from their proper places in connection 
with cuts 43 and 44, where they belong. 



60 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

the Third Method will, as a rule, prove a success or failure 
after the first trial. But if the horse will bear it, this trial 
can be carried to a considerable extreme of pressure, and 
continued for some time, though it should not exceed thirty 
minutes except in very extreme cases. This I have learned 
by a long series of careful experiments upon all kinds of 
horses. The point is to make all the impression possible 
with it when used, and then, if necessary, resort to other 
methods. 

It is rarely necessary to use much severity in the sub- 
jection of colts. The less excitement and punishment used 
in their treatment, the better. Also in the management of 
vicious horses, the best proof of skill lies in surprising or 
forcing them into submission before they become excited. 
Much extra work and abuse will thereby be prevented. 
Under no circumstances must there be half-way work. 
Nothing short of the most thorough and complete submisr 
sion will answer. Short of this there will be danger, in 
the future handling or training, of their breaking over and 
becoming more unmanageable than before. 

Control by Whipping. 

In chapter on " Colt Training," I have referred to the 
control of horses by whipping, and I think it advisable to 
refer to it here more definitely as a method of subjection. 
If a sensitive, nervous-tempered horse were shut up in a 
small yard or building, and then suddenly or unexpectedly 
whipped from behind, and the whipping cease as soon as 
the horse is disconcerted and frightened, it would certainly 
do a great deal in the way of controlling him. But this 
should not be hazarded in the control of courageous, strong- 
willed horses, especially stallions, as it would be likely to 



WAE BEIDLB— FIEST POEM. 61 

cause such to suddenly pitch at the trainer. I have fre- 
quently found horses so extremely sensitive that punish- 
ment of any kind would immediately excite in them the 
greatest resentment. The most noticeable case in my ex- 
perience was an English thoroughbred, in Fredericton, N. 
B. This horse could with care be handled with a good 
bridle ; but the trainer warned me to look out for myself 
if I attempted to punish him in any way. To test him I 
put on the War Bridle, and gave him a sharp jerk back- 
ward with it, when he jumped directly for me, and I had 
all I could do to save myself. 

The next most marked case was that of a horse I had 
trained to drive without reins, and had traveled with 
through Ohio and other parts of the West. Whipping 
would excite his hostility to such a degree that in training 
him it was necessary to keep his head tied from me. I re- 
fer to these cases to show that such treatment is decidedly 
objectionable, and should not be employed. 

The whip should not be used as a means of subjection, 
but of punishment. As explained under another head, the 
skin on the legs and body of a horse is so thick that when 
he is warmed up, and his sensibilities blunted, the most 
severe whipping is not much felt by him ; so if the horse 
is one of much courage, and has acquired confidence to 
fight, he will be likely to resist this treatment. 

THE WAE BEIDLE— FIEST FOEM. 

The War Bridle is naturally the next in order. The 
first idea of it was obtained from the Comanche Indians. 
Its first form was very limited and crude, being simply a 
loop around the lower jaw, the cord put around the neck 
and drawn down through the loop. With this cord well 



62 



METHODS OF SUBJECTIOl^. 



back upon the neck, the pulling upon it gave some power 
upon the head right and left. This is the form in which I 
found it. The various modifications of its use, as here rep- 
resented, are the result of over twenty years' constant 

practice. With a knowl- 
edge of its proper applica- 
tion, and a little practice, 
it will be found a very val- 
uable means of control. 

For the simplest form of 
War Bridle, take a piece of 
the very best quality of 
hemp cord, tie each end into 
a hard knot, and make an- 
other knot or loop about 
twenty inches from one end. 
Bring this end around the 
horse's neck, and pass it 
through the loose knot or 
loop, regulating to the size 
of the neck. Next catch 
the end hanging down, and pass between the cord and neck 
forming a loop, with the free end on the near side. Pass 
this loop through the mouth, as shown in Fig. 59. This 
we will call the First Form of War Bridle. 




Fig. 58.— First Form of War Bridle. 



Double Dkaw Hitch Form. 

Put on the cord as before explained. Then pass it over 

the head and back through the mouth, thence through the 

loop this forms on the near side. (See Fig. 63.) This 

-more than doubles the power of the previous form, and is 

very important when great power is necessary. If desired, 



WAR BRIDLE— SECOND FORM. 



63 



this can be 
modified so 
as to give 
still greater 
power by 
bringing the 
cord across 
under the 
upper lip in- 
stead of 
through the 
mouth, or by 
making an- 
other loop 

over the head in the same manner, and bringing it 
the upper lip. 

Second Form. 




Fig. 59.— First Form of War Bridle. 



under 



Make a single loose knot or loop about a foot from a 
knot at the end. Put the end knot through the loose knot 
or loop, and draw sufficiently tight to prevent its slipping 
out. The loop thus formed should be only large enough to 
go over the lower jaw. The larger the loop the less j^ower 

will be obtained. 
Next pass the 
cord from the off 
side over the 
head where the 
halter rests, and 
down through 
this loop back of 
the J9,w till the glack is taken up. (See cuts 63 and 64.) 



Fig. 60. — Smallest size of cord used — five-six- 
teenths of an inch diameter. 



Fig. 61. — Largest size of cord used — three-eighths 
of an inch in diameter. 



64 



METHODS OP SUBJECTION. 




Fig. 63.— Double Draw Hitch. 



The points of using the War Bridle are as follows : For 
the First Form, which gives power sideways and back, 
stand opposite the shoulder and give a sharp, quick pull or 
jerk, and instantly slack, using more or less force accord- 
ing to the amount of 
resistance to be over- 
come. Repeat at in- 
tervals of fi V e or 
eight seconds until 
the horse will come 
around, then repeat 
on the opposite side. 
In a few minutes the 
horse will usually 
come around and fol- 
low rather than be hurt by being pulled upon. 

For controling a horse bad to harness, shoe, etc., after 
pulling right and left a few times, and while the cord is 
kept rather taut, the object can be brought gently to the 
head or back until submitted to. In all obstinate cases it 
is important that the head is at first held under restraint 
until successful, giving freedom as there is submission to 
it. A few minutes' trial will almost always determine 
whether it will give success or not. If after a fair trial 
there is still resistance, it must be abandoned for the gen- 
eral treatment. 

For the Second Form, which gives power sideways and 
forward, stand in front, a little to one side, and, as before 
explained, give a short, sharp jerk, or pull, slowly repeat- 
ing. Sometimes, if the horse is sensitive and nervous, two 
or three pulls will be sufficient to make him follow promptly, 
even running after the trainer to avoid being puUed upon. 



WAR BRIDLE— SECOND FORM. 



65 




Fig. 63. — Second Form of 
War Bridle. 



But if a cold-blooded fellow that shows considerable resist- 
ance, and stands sullenly in defiance of the pulling, after 
pulling a few times go to the 
opposite side and repeat in the 
same manner. This will help 
to disconcert him, and weaken 
his resistance. Sometimes the 
resistance may last ten minutes, 
or even longer, the horse per- 
haps, bracing himself stub- 
bornly; but even this should 
be no cause for discouragement. 
Simply repeat the treatment 
slowly, or not fast enough to 
get out of breath, for when the 
horse does come it will be all at 
once with a jump, when in most cases he will be found bro- 
ken, following and leading anywhere without being pulled 

upon. In an av- 
erage case the 
first pull will usu- 
ally pull the 
horse off his feet, 
and after being 
pulled upon sev- 
eral times, he 
will usually fol- 
low promptly. 

This is an im- 
portant point in 

Fig. 64.— Second Form of War Bridle as it should breaking doublc 

^^ ^^^'''^'^- balkers,— to first 

5 




66 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



make the horse come ahead until he Avill follow without re- 
sistance, then, as described under that head, the power of 
the gentle horse is brought upon him until he will go ahead 
as desired. 

Putting this part over the head, about half way back 
on the neck, drawing down tightly and tying into a half- 
hitch, is a good way to keep the head down to bridle, etc., 
but it should not be kept tied more than a minute or two. 




Fig. 65. — Cord too far back on the neck, with loop on the 
lower jaw too large. Will not work. 

(See cut 66.) Sometimes a horse bad to shoe can be made 
to stand quietly by putting the small loop over the upper 
jaw under the lip, instead of the lower jaw. Simply pull- 
ing right and left a little, and holding rather tight while 
shoeing, is all that will be necessary. 

Another modification is to put on the War Bridle (Sec- 
ond Form) passing the cord across the upper lip and over 
the head, thence through the loop this forms. (See cut 
68.) This will sometimes work very well in controlling a 
horse bad to shoe, harness, etc. 



WAE BEIDJjE— SECOND FOEM. 



67 



A word of caution may here be given in the use of the 
War Bridle. It is important in the management of obsti- 
nate cases, to pro- 
tect the hands 
from injury, as 
they are liable to 
have the skin 
torn off or blis- 
tered, which in 
the excitement 
may not at the 
time be felt. 

Many interest- 
ing anecdotes 
could be given in 
relation to the 
use of this cord. 
A popular writer, 
in explaining the control of horses, says : " If a rope be 

fastened in the mouth of a 
horse, and another around the 
neck, he becomes helpless, 
and feels his helplessness, and 
follows his master round and 
round like a child. I saw 
this done." This is about as 
near as most writers can de- 
scribe what they have no 
practical knowledge of. No 
living man could get any idea of the use of the War Bridle 
from this description. 

Several years ago a young man introduced himself to 




Fig. 66. — Method of tying down to make horse submit 
to be harnessed, have his head handled, etc. 




Fig. 67. — Manner of tying. 



68 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



the writer, and stated that he could break any horse of 
kicking in ten minutes, no matter how bad he might be. 
I told him I would give him one hundred dollars for knowl- 
edge that would enable me to control a kicking horse with 
certainty in that time better than I was then able to do. 
Assured of this, he came up as if to give me a profound 
secret, and said, " You take a piece of rope and put it in 
the horse's mouth and over his neck, then yank him with 




Fig. 68.— Modification of Second Form. 

it, and in ten minutes you can't make him kick." I had 
been through that country years before teaching classes, 
and the young man had got a crude idea of the War Bridle 
through som^ of my scholars. His success in controlling 
some ordinary cases with it, gave him confidence to believe 
that he could break any horse. 

A gentleman who once attended my class, upon meeting 
rae years afterward, said he did not practice anything but 
that cord arrangement. He said that once while visiting 
some friends, and telling them what he had learned to do, 



WAE BEIDLE— SECOND FOEM. 69 

after some bantering and making a wager with one or two 
of them, he trained a young horse in a few minutes with 
the cord so that he would follow him anywhere, even into 
the house. He said he told them he would take the horse 
to the top of the house, if they wished. His friends were 
much surprised, and satisfied at the result of the experi- 
ment. Said he, " They actually thought I could make the 
horse follow me up the ladder if I wished," 

The simplicity of this form of control makes it difficult 
to realize its value; neither is it too much to say that it 
requires a great deal of practice to use it with decided ad- 
vantage. If limited to the various forms of the War and 
Patent Bridles, one could drive and control more than half 
of the average of vicious horses in the country. When 
properly used, the ease and quickness with which a colt or 
horse can be made to follow is surprising, particularly by 
the First Form. This form is especially adapted to con- 
trolling by the head and teaching to follow, such as head- 
strong stallions, and lunging, headstrong horses that have 
learned to pull away. Also for controlling horses bad to 
shoe or bridle, and such as will not stand to be harnessed 
or cruppered, or refuse to have the collar put on. It may 
be used for ordinary cases afraid of the buffalo-robe, etc. 
It will also break a cow that kicks while milking. The Sec- 
ond Form is just the thing for the management of balkers, 
as explained under that head. 

I used this bridle ten years before knowing how to 
bring out anything like its full resources. Indeed, it was 
only after thirteen years that I learned the Double Draw 
Hitch Form — a modification alone that more than doubles 
its power. In fact, we were constantly developing more 
and more, to the very last of my practice, the great value of 
this simple means of control. 



70 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

"W," OR Breaking Bit. 



5 



The Breaking Bit is one of the most simjDle and effect- 
ive means of making a hard, unmanageable mouth flexible 
to the restraint of the bit that I know of. It has been the 
growth of many years' practice, and as will be noticed in 
other parts of this work, some of my greatest feats in the 
control of headstrong, runaway horses were accomplished 
by means of it. It is not a bit for driving, though it may 
in some cases be used as such. The secret of its success 
is not so much in the bit as in the manner of using it, which 




Fig. 69.— W, or Breaking Bit. Half size. 

in principle is practically the same as that given for the 
War Bridle. As explained in the use of the cord, there 
may be at first the most determined resistance to it ; but 
by repetition of the treatment the horse will in a short 
time not only cease resisting, but will follow anywhere. 
The impression made in this way is never forgotten, and 
the horse will afterward lead by the merest restraint of the 
halter. 

In the same manner when there is at first an effort with 
this bit to control or force the submission of a headstrong 
horse, there may be at first the most .desperate resistance 
to it ; but by repetition of the treatment there will in a 
short time be such complete submission to it that the horse 
can be held or controlled afterward, even under the great- 



'<W," OE BEEAKING BIT. 71 

est excitement, by the lightest restraint of an ordinary bit. 
This principle of training is also illustrated in " Halter- 
Pulling," and in fact in every step of subjective treatment. 

The length of the bit should be regulated to the size of 
the mouth, so that when pulled upon, the bars will come at 
right angles with the jaw on each side. The average length 
is eight and three-fourths inches from center to center of 
ring-holes when put together. This makes the length of 
small bars three and three-eighths inches, and long bars 
five and five-eighths inches from center to center of holes. 
It may be made much shorter, but it would proportionately 
lessen the lever power of the bars upon the jaw, which is 
the key of its success. It should be made of round cast- 
steel rod about five-sixteenths of an inch in diameter. 
(A good illustration is given on a scale of one-half size.) 
Between the bars at the ends, there should be a small, thin 
washer. It must be finished smooth, with no rough cor- 
ners or surfaces anywhere. Sometimes a round, stiff piece 
of leather may be put inside the rings, but this is not nec- 
essary. 

A great variety of bits are made on this principle, but 
their construction is so faulty they do not work well. 
They are mainly defective in being too short and rough. 
This bit will not bruise or cut the mouth. Some of the 
points which it took me a good many years to learn, were, 
that there was no practical advantage in making the bars 
twisted and rough for the purpose of hurting more ; that 
the lever power was the point of its success, and that it 
would work just as well when the bars were smooth as 
when twisted and roughened. 

The point of its use is, when put in the mouth the reins 
are to be brought back through the shaft lugs so as to bring 



72 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

a straight, even pull upon the mouth backward, and prevent 
the horse from turning around. While he is standing or 
moving, according to circumstances, after giving the com- 
mand to back or whoa, give a sharp, raking jerk upon the 
reins, and repeat at short intervals. In all ordinary cases 
the submission will be quick and easy ; but in plucky, bad 
cases, the resistance may be very determined. In fact, in 
many cases the resistance may be so great that it may seem 
impossible to make the horse yield ; but this should not 
discourage. Perseverance will in all cases bring success. 

If the horse warms up much, and becomes sullenly in- 
different to the pressure of the bit upon the mouth, by re- 
peating the lesson it is rarely he will not be found to sub- 
mit in a few minutes. At any rate the lesson must be so 
thorough that there will be unconditional submission. In 
all my experience I never found more than half a dozen 
cases that did not submit to one or two lessons. The point 
is to persevere, repeating, if necessary, until there is suc- 
cess. 

More extended details in the application of this bit will 
be found in chapters on " Colt Training," and " Running 
Away." As training the mouth by this bit is not always 
desirable on account or the work of doing it, and the lack 
of skill and practice in using it, I include other forms of 
bits which will enable the control of horses more directly 
and with great success: 1. The Four-ring Bit; 2. The 
Half Moon Bit; 3. The Spoon Bit; and 4. The Patent 
Bridle. 

Four-ring, or Upper Jaw Bit. 

In controlling a horse by the head, we find that one of 
the most sensitive parts of the mouth is the roof of the up- 



FOUR-EING, OR UPPEE JAW BIT. 73 

per jaw. If we take a common snaffle bit and slide two 
rings over the mouth-pieces, and connect them by a strap 
passing loosely over the nose, when the reins, which are 
attached to the outside rings, are pulled upon, the center of 
the bit is forced upward against the roof of the mouth. 




Fig. 70. — Improved Four-ring Bit. 

This produces such acute pain that but few horses can pull 
against it for any length of time. 

This bit has been in very general use for a number of 
years, but I do not know when or by whom it was in- 
vented. Frank Leslie, of Leslies Weekly, who witnessed 
some of my experiments in New York City, told me that 




Fig. 71. — Improved Four-ring Bit. Patent applied for. 

while in Europe he saw an illustration of such a bit in an 
old Grecian work. While the bit works fairly well when 
not pulled upon very hard, its power would be almost 
wholly lost by the rings sliding to the ends of the bars if 
the resistance against it were at all severe. To prevent 
this I devised an obstruction to the rings at a certain point, 
beyond which they cannot slide. (See cuts 70, 71,) By 
this improvement the bit will rest easily and naturally in 



74 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



the mouth, yet be held firmly in place in spite of any de- 
gree of pulling upon it. 

This bit will work well upon hard pullers and side 
reiners, especially those that, as they warm up, have more 
inclination to lug or pull. A horse that will pull so hard 
upon a common bit as to draw the wagon by the reins, will, 
in most cases, by the use of this bit submit to an easy rein. 




Fig. 72. — Four-iiug Bit as arranged for use. 

It is also one of the simplest and safest means to make a 
horse stand to be shod. For this purpose, when the bit is 
in the mouth, take a common War Bridle cord, tie one end 
into the near ring, and pass through the opposite ring till 
taut, and tie. Then bring the cord around the horse's neck 
as for Second Form of War Bridle, with the cord well 
back upon the neck, and passed down back of the jaw. 
This will be found of special value to horse-shoers, because, 
with rare exceptions, it compels most horses bad to shoe to 
stand gently while being shod. See chapter on " Bad to 
Shoe." 



HALF MOON BIT. 



75 



It will greatly increase the effectiveness of the Half 
Moon Bit to keep the head elevated. Indeed, this alone 
will enable driving many headstrong horses easily. The 
simplest and best form of check for this is arranged about 
as follows : Put on a small steel bit partly bent, and pass 
a closely-fitting strap from each ring across the nose. To 
keep it in place, another small strap should extend from 
the center of it to the head-piece. The gag-runners should 
be attached to the bridle well up on the head-piece on a 
line with the ears. The check-rein should be attached to 
this bit, and drawn short enough to throw the head well up. 




Fig. 73.— Half Moon Bit. 

The next point is to so conform the driving bit that it 
cannot be resisted. This is accomplished by making the 
part of the mouth-piece coming against the jaw so thin that 
more than an ordinary pull upon it will hurt so severely 
that there will be no inclination to pull against it ; next, 
that it be made so circular in form that it will give suffi- 
cient lateral restraint to prevent pulling or lunging side- 
ways. The length should be from four and seven-eighths 
to five inches from center to center of holes, the bend about 
one inch forward from a line drawn across the center of 
the holes, with the edge filed down to about the thickness 
of the back of an ordinary knife-blade, and rounding to 
prevent cutting. This will make the surface bearing against 
the mouth so narrow the most plucky horse can scarcely 



76 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

pull against it. This bit will be found very effective for 
the management of spirited, pulling, and lunging horses. 

Spoon Bit. 

The Spoon Bit simply causes sensibility in the mouth 
in another way, namely, by the pressure of the spurs or 
flanges against the outside of the jaw to the degree the bit 
is pulled upon. It will be found in many cases to work 




Fig. 74.— Spoon Bit. 

very nicely, though it is not a bit that gives much power. 
It is more like the Four-ring Bit in compelling an easy sub- 
mission of the mouth to the guidance and restraint of the 
reins. The illustration will sufficiently explain its con- 
struction. 

Patent Bridle. 

The Patent Bridle is especially adapted for the control 
of extremely headstrong, lunging horses. It requires con- 
siderable practice as well as much hard work to train a 
horse successfully by the Breaking Bit ; also to make a 
bad puUer, or horse having a hard mouth, so sensitive as 
to submit to the control of an ordinary bit. And on ac- 
count of the other bits given being frequently inadequate 



PATENT BEIDLB. 



77 



for these cases to make their management simple and easy, 

I have invented this means of control. 

This is an ordinary bit with a pulley in each ring. A 

small, oval strap passes 

under the head-piece of 

the bridle, at each end 

of which is a pulley 

corresponding to those 

attached to the bit. Tie 

or buckle the ends of 

the reins into the rings 

of the bit, pass them 

up through the pulleys 

on the ends of the round 

straps, thence back 

through the pulleys in 

the bit rings. On the 

ends of these round pul- 
ley reins, is stitched a 

small, strong ring. Another round, extra bit of strong, 

flexible material (used only for very severe cases) is at- 
tached to the main bit. (See cuts 75, 76.) This bridle 

gives great pulley power up 
and backward, against the 
most sensitive part of the 
mouth, under the upper lip, 
making it almost impossible 
to resist an ordinary pull 
upon the reins. In addition, 
the fulcrum of whatever 

power is used being brought, by the rounded strap before 

referred to, directly upon the spinal cord (as explained in 




Fig. 75.— Outline of Patent Bridle. 




Fig. 76. 



78 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



Third Method), makes it a direct and powerful means of 
subjection ; so that if there is courage to pull for any length 
of time, the horse finds himself so overmatched that he will 
soon cease the resistance, and drive with an easy or slack 
rein, when the extra hit, if used, can be removed. A rub- 
ber connecting the ends of the bit to the rings on the pul- 
ley reins makes the action of the bit upon the mouth the 




Fig. 77.— The Patent Bridle for headstrong, lunging, runaway 
horses. Patented Oct. 36, 1880. 

same as any ordinary bit. But if at any time there should 
be much resistance, the rubbers stretch sufficiently to give 
play to the reins upon the pulleys, which will compel sub- 
mission, — a very important point in the management of 
plucky, treacherous horses. 

In breaking a horse to lead, simply reverse the reins 
through the pulleys so as to pull ahead. By catching both 
reins and pulling sideways and ahead, it will give such pur- 



FOOT STEAP. 79 

chase that the horse can he lifted right or left, or ahead, 
with as much or more power than by the War Bridle. 

For halter-pulling pass the reins or cord attached to the 
rings through the ring or hole in the manger, and form the 
end into a noose around the body of the horse back of the 
shoulders. The instant he begins to pull, the punishment 
becomes so severe upon his head that he will soon be afraid 
to pull. This is the only practicable means for breaking 
bridle-pullers. It is equally effective for breaking double 
balkers. For such, the cord is tied to the end of the pole 
(as explained under the head of "Balking"), when, if he 
does not go, the gentle horse jerks him out of his tracks. 

Foot Strap. 

The Foot Strap, properly considered, is but a palliative 
means of control. It is, however, so simple and practical 

that I will give it a place 
here. It is merely to be used 
in an emergency as an aux- 
iliary to the other methods. 
Tying up one foot (referred to 
in " Subjection") greatly dis- 
ables a horse from resisting. 
During my early experi- 
menting I frequentlyresorted 
to this means in the manage- 
ment of colts. Once having a horse I could not safely con- 
trol while driving, it occurred to me to attach a strap to 
the foot and carry it back to the wagon, by which means 
I could at any moment, while driving, hold the foot help- 
less. Upon trial the effect upon the horse was beyond my 
expectation. The sudden pulling of the foot from under 




FiCx. 78.— Foot Strap. 



80 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

him had a much more powerful effect in disconcerting and 
discouraging the resistance than could possibly be done by 
tying up the foot. A horse can travel but a short distance 
upon three legs, and if a bad kicker, he is liable to balance 
on the opposite leg and kick as bad as before ; whereas, 
suddenly holding the foot helpless not only prevents this, 
but freedom can be given him to move again when desired. 
When there is danger of an, unbroken colt's resisting 
control and running away, a strap may be attached to both 
fore feet, which will of course give power to entirely dis- 
able him. Buckle a soft strap around the foot, to which 
attach a cord or driving-rein, and carry back under the 
belly-band to the wagon. The belly-band should be strong, 
and not buckled very tightly, so as to allow entire freedom 
for the cord or strap to play. "With the aid of this alone, 
when properly used, almost any colt can be easily broken 
to harness without difficulty. (See cut 78.) 

Breaking Rig. 

When a colt or horse is dangerous or reckless in his re- 
sistance, it is very convenient to control him by means that 
will require but little if any practical skill, and for this pur- 
pose I have invented the Breaking Big, which will be found 
a valuable acquisition to the other methods here given. 

To break a kicking, runaway horse or colt, all that is 
necessary is to carefully harness him in the rig so that he 
will not break loose, and let him go as he pleases. The 
more he struggles to free himself, or tries to kick and run, 
the quicker he will be broken, while the trainer can sit 
quietly behind, touching and poling the horse where sensi- 
tive, until he is entirely gentle and submissive. The rig 
should be constructed as follows : First set an upright post 



BEBAKING EIG. 



81 



firmly in the ground. Next have two shaft arms about 
twenty feet in length so fitted that one end of each will 
turn upon the post. At the outer end of both of these 
shaft arms should be fitted a spindle and a wheel from a 
lumber or farm wagon. Separate the ends of the arms at 
a distance of eleven or twelve feet, or so that the horse can 
travel between them without touching either. Next place 




Fig. 79.— Simple Form of Breaking Rig. Patented July 6, 1880. 

two bars across from one shaft arm to the other, the inner 
one about three feet and eight inches from the hub of the 
wheel, the outer one about two feet from the inside one 
at the horse's shoulders, and three feet at the quarters, so 
that an average-sized horse can travel easily between them. 
Have holes or mortises made through the shaft arms, and 
the ends of the bars fitted to them. The inner one should 
be fastened permanently, but the outer one so fitted that 
it can be taken out and reversed to allow driving the other 
way. It would be well to have the holes or mortises du- 
plicated so that the bars can be adjusted to fit the size of 
the horse. 



82 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 




ADAPTATION TO WANTS. 83 

If the wheels are not high enough to support the frame 
arms, put an extra piece of scantling on the upper side, 
and make the mortises or holes high enough to bring the 
bars where the shafts would come in driving. The simplest 
way of fastening the horse in the rig is, after he is har- 
nessed in place, to pass a strap under the body from one bar 
to the other, another over the body and shoulders, and a 
third over the hips. 

No matter how vicious or headstrong a runaway horse 
may be, the faster and more determinedly he runs in this 
rig, the sooner he will from necessity become gentle. He 
has not the liberty to rear up, throw himself, or kick. If 
he undertakes to run, he is carried in a circle so rapidly 
that he becomes completely drunk and dizzy, and would 
fall helpless if not confined and supported. If sensitive 
about hPoving the head, neck, or hind parts touched, he can 
now be handled until he is entirely submissive to it. If 
he is afraid of an umbrella or robe, they can now be brought 
around him until he is submissive. If he is afraid of a car- 
riage-top, open and shut an umbrella before his face, over, 
and behind him, until he is fearless of it. If afraid of haA^- 
ing the rein caught under the tail, and inclined to run un- 
der such circumstances, he can now, with entire ease and 
safety, be made to submit to it. 

Adaptation to Wants. 

It is evident to almost any one that all horses are not 
alike, and that they cannot all be managed in the same 
way ; that there are great differences in strength, intelli- 
gence, and disposition. Yet the majority of people seem 
to entirely overlook these conditions in applying treatment, 



84 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 




ADAPTATION TO WANTS. 



85 



or in putting them to such work as they are by the pecul- 
iarity of their nature best adapted. 

In the first place, we see there is a singular adaptation 
in all the domestic animals to the locations and sections of 
country in which we find them, and to the wants of the 
people in those parts. In the extreme North, where no 
other domestic animal could live, we find a dog of peculiar 




Fig. 82. — The stallion, Godolphin Arabian. 

nature, adapted to the wants of the Esquimaux as a beast 
of burden, fisherman, hunter, &c., and able to subsist on 
the scantiest fare of fish. A little farther south, the Lap- 
landers have the reindeer, which not only thrives on the 
moss peculiar to that region, but supplies the people with 
subsistence in the way of milk, butter, and cheese. He 
travels with rapidity long distances, drawing a sledge over 
the frozen ground, easily guided and controlled by the Lap- 
lander as he sits behind. His skin makes the best of cloth- 
ing, while the flesh is indispensable for food. 



86 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

The Peruvians have the llama, or alpaca, which, accus- 
tomed to climbing the mountains, carries heavy burdens 
over the Andes, and furnishes the people with milk for 
their children and wool for their clothing, as well as flesh 
for food. The people of the desert have the camel, or drom- 
edary, for crossing the arid, sandy plains. Not only will 




Fig. 83. — A good model of Draught Horse. 

he carry a heavy burden patiently, but carries within his 
body a supply of water to last him a week. 

Now we see the same principle of adaptation to the va- 
rious wants of man shown to a wonderful degree in the 
horse, by the great modifications in size, strength, and en- 
durance. For drawing heavy loads we have the coarse- 
grained, heavy, square-shouldered, patient cart-horse. For 
quick, active exertion, the thoroughbred, or lithe, active 
race-horse, with oblique shoulders, deep chest, dense text- 



ADAPTATION TO WANTS. 



87 



ure of body, having the conformation of the greyhound, 
and capable of running with the swiftness of the wind. 

Some are docile, intelligent, and quick to learn ; others 
are dull, wild, or vicious, and more difficult to manage, often 
reminding of the characteristics of other animals. For ex- 
ample, a horse having small, round eyes, set well back on 




*riG. 84. — A fine model of the French Norman Horse. 



the sides of the head, heavy eyelids, long from eyes to ears, 
narrow forehead, rounding nose, and small nostrils, will be 
found naturally obstinate, treacherous, and stupid, remind- 
ing of the hog or mule nature. Though sullen and deter- 



* Drawing from life of the Norman Stallion, " Vermouht," owned by E. Dillon 
& Co., Bloomington, 111., well known importers of Norman Stallions. 



88 



METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 



mined in his resistance at first, and requiring considerable 
time, he is not difficult to manage. On the contrary, if the 
eye be large, clear or dark in color, showing much white, 
and set well out on the head, long from eyes to ears, ears 
rather long and heavy, and set well apart, forehead mid- 
dling broad, and medium-sized nostrils, the character when 
excited will be vicious, and he will be liable to snort, strike, 
and kick, reminding of the cat, or feline nature. In this 







Fig. 85.— The Shetland Pony. 

class are to be found the greatest average of vicious horses. 

If a horse has large, brown eyes, set well out on the 
head, eyelids thin, short from eyes to ears, ears pointed 
and active, forehead broad, and nostrils large, he will be 
naturally docile and intelligent. If made vicious, no mat- 
ter how bad, he will submit readily to treatment. 

Again, if the horse is one of fine bones, thin skin, small 
chest, medium-sized stomach and bowels, not inclined to 
put on flesh, there will be great sensibility and action, but 
not corresponding endurance. Any resistance usually re- 
sults from excitement and fear, requiring but little more 



ADAPTATION TO WANTS. 89 

than careful, good management. But if on the other hand 
we find the horse to be heavy boned, with dense texture 
of body, deep chest and good digestion, there will be greater 
power of resistance, and more prolonged endurance. The 
greatest average of the most vicious horses I have ever 
handled were dull iron-grey, sorrel, or black, and occasion- 
ally a bay is equally bad. 

In determining character we cannot form correct judg- 
ment by studying parts only ; it must be determined chiefly 
by the correspondence of the different parts of the whole 
body. For example, a horse with long ears, and small, 
round eyes, may kick and run, but this is no certain indi- 
cation that every horse with long ears and small eyes is a 
kicking runaway. The whole body must be taken into 
consideration, though frequently a very reliable opinion 
can be formed by a close observation of the head, and es- 
pecially by the expression of the eye. The " Hillman" 
horse referred to was in every respect a model in appear- 
ance except the eyes, which were snake-like, and the form 
of the head between the ears, which was very low. He 
would look at a man pleasantly, and the very next minute 
spring at him with the quickness of a cat. 

Long-continued practice in the treatment of all kinds 
of horses enabled me finally to determine with great accu- 
racy the exact type of character from the 'color, kind of 
eyes, ears, etc., as there is always an intimate relation be- 
tween the peculiarity of disposition and the physical struct- 
ure. Indeed, this was necessary to my success, for unless 
I was able to determine clearly the character of the horse 
when brought forward for treatment, and know just how 
he would be liable to act under excitement, I would often 
be subjected to great embarrassment by having notoriously 



90 METHODS OF SUBJECTION. 

bad horses sprung upon me without warning. In fact, it 
was on account of being caught in this way a great many 
times that I was compelled to become observant, and when 
able to point out what a horse would do, and the treatment 
necessary for his subjection, and then prove it, it became 
a great point in my favor. 

To give some idea of these peculiarities, I include a 
great variety of heads. But it will be understood that it 
is impossible, with the greatest nicety of artistic skill, to 
illustrate the changing expression of even the eye. In the 
human eye, anger, fear, or affection is clearly marked. 
Now the horse shows the same peculiarity of changing ex- 
pression in his eye, and wiU require the same amount oi 
study to determine his intentions. 

The methods given in this chapter are proved to be the 
most powerful, comprehensive, and humane for the subjec- 
tion of horses that have ever yet been discovered. They 
give power to control the whole or any part of the body, 
so that with reasonable care it becomes a very easy and 
simple matter to perform astonishing feats of mastery over 
the most vicious horses. When his intelHgence and better 
nature cannot be reached by kindness, force becomes nec- 
essary until a foundation is laid which will allow an appeal 
to the better nature by kindness. Under treatment by 
these methods the horse is taken at such a disadvantage at 
every point that there is but one alternative, — submission. 
It is science against strength, — man using his ingenuity to 
neutralize and master brute force. 

Now it is seen that the most valuable machine may be 
rendered useless by bad management ; that its usefulness 
and value depend upon the skill with which it is managed. 
So the advantages of these methods depend upon the man- 
ner in which they are applied. A more detailed explana- 
tion of these methods, with a history of the methods here- 
tofore practiced, etc., will be found in the chapter on " Sub- 
jection," which should be read in connection with this. 



CHAPTER II. 



COLT TRAINING. 

The successful teacher aims first to gain the confidence 
of his scholars, so that he can address their understanding 
clearly. But were he to transform himself into a danger- 




FiG. 86. — Simple way of haltering a dangerous colt. 

ous monster, whipping them while talking in an unknown 
language, indicating by his actions that he would kill or in- 
jure them, they would become so frightened and excited 

(91) 



92 COLT TEAINING. 

that their first impulse would be, resistance, or a desperate 
struggle to get away. 

Now this is the impression made upon the wild, un- 
broken colt when hurt, frightened, or excited, in the effort 
to train and control him, and which in a proportionate de- 
gree must increase the difficulty of his successful manage- 
ment. It is important, on this account, that every step in 




Fig. 87.— Testing a doubtful colt before subjecting to treatment. 

the management of these cases be of a character to prevent 
and overcome fear, when the instruction and training can 
be carried forward to the degree of the colt's ability to un- 
derstand, and there is perfect obedience. 

Haltering. 

To halter an unbroken colt, first turn him into a mod- 
erate-sized room or carriage-house, without stalls or any- 



HALTEEING. 



93 



thing which he can run against to hurt himself. It would 
alarm him too much to try to catch and hold him to put 
on the halter, and besides, there is danger of getting hurt. 
This difficulty can he easily overcome as follows : Get a 
light pole ten feet long, and drive two nails in it about 
eight inches apart, the first about one inch from the end. 
Take a common rope halter, and form a running noose with 
the part which slips through it back about two feet. Hang 




Fig. 88. — About the length the halter should be tied. 

the part which goes over the head upon the nails at the 
end of the stick, so as to be easily adjusted upon the head. 
(See cut 86.) If the colt is not excited or frightened, as 
the halter is extended toward him he will reach out his 
nose to smell and examine it. While he is gratifying his 
curiosity in this way, bring the slack part under his jaw, 
the head part over and back of the ears, when by turning 
the stick half way round, the halter will drop upon the 
head. Now by pulling upon it, the slack will be taken up 
and the halter wiU be upon him securely. 



94 



COLT TEAINING. 



Making the Colt Gentle. 

To teach a vicious, headstrong colt to follow, subject 
him at once to Second Method. Tie the hair of the tail 
into a knot, and run the halter through above it, drawing 
short enough to turn the body in a half circle. If at all 
doubtful about the length, before tying go around with him 
once or twice (see cut 35), when the length can be regu- 
lated to the point desired and tied into a half-hitch knot. 




Fig. 89.— Pulling the foot back with cord. 

Now bring the pole against the quarters until it is submit- 
ted to. 

If the halter is tied too long, especially if the colt is a 
little sullen, he will not move around fast enough to have 
the desired effect. Or if he is at all nervous and excitable, 
and tied very short, he will be likely to go around so rap- 
idly as to fall helplessly before the halter can be untied. 
To avoid possible accident this should be carefully guarded 
against. 

When the colt will submit to being touched on one side 
or part with a pole, go to the opposite side, and repeat un- 



MAKING THE COLT GENTLE. 



95 



til there is no resistance or fear shown. Some colts will 
resist very hard when touched, striking and kicking with 
great fury. This need not discourage ; simply force up 
sharply to the point of helplessness, reversing quickly, and 
repeating until there is entire submission. It is rare that 
this treatment will not give success in ten or fifteen min- 
utes. But should the case be one of such extreme vicious- 
ness as not to submit, then the treatment must be the same 




Fig. 90.— Pulling the foot forward. 

as for other extremely vicious horses. After submitting, 
if warm and sweaty, keep handling him gently until cool. 
Next, handle the feet. At this stage there should be 
no difficulty in doing this. If, however, the colt should 
show an inclination to resist the foot being taken, and it is 
not desired to push the general subjection farther (for fre- 
quently a colt may be entirely gentle as to general hand- 
ling, and still resist the feet being taken, with much en- 
ergy), put on the War Bridle. After giving a few quick, 
energetic jerks right and left with it, let an assistant tie a 



96 COLT TEAINING. 

rope or strap around the foot below the fetlock, and, while 
holding the cord rather tight on the mouth, pull the foot 
back until it is submitted freely to the restraint upon it ; 
then reverse and pull forward a few times. Finally take 
the foot in the hand and pound upon it. 

Teaching to Follow. 
Usually after this treatment the colt will lead by the 




Fig. 91. — The colt as he stands after treatment. 

halter freely ; but if he does not, put on the War Bridle, 
First Form, which will soon enable making him do so. 
Sometimes it is desirable to use the Second Form. Colts 
of a cold-blooded nature, which are liable to become sullen 
when heated, will sometimes resist very hard ; but by per- 
severance they always work in, though in some extreme 
cases it may be best to wait until the excitement is over, 
and then repeat the lesson. As the War Bridle may not 
always be available, I will give the simplest method of 
doing it with a halter : — 

If a rope halter is on, tie the running noose back of the 



TEAOHmG ^ro FOLLOW. 9^ 

jaw into a knot to prevent it from pulling tightly upon the 
nose. Stand opposite the shoulder, take a firm hold of the 
hitching-part, and give a sharp, quick jerk, repeating at 
slow intervals until the colt will step around promptly; 
then repeat on the opposite side, gradually pulling more 
on a line with the body until he will go right, left, or ahead 
freely. The War Bridle, if available, is much more power- 
ful and effective, and to be preferred. 

The following method will also teach a sullen colt to 
follow instantly, though not so good to make follow by the 




Fig. 93. — Wrong way of teaching colt to lead by halter. 

halter, which is the real object to be attained : Take a 
piece of cord twenty-two to twenty-five feet in length, 
double, and place the center of it under the tail like a 
crupper; bring both ends forward, crossing and twisting 
them once or twice over the back, and knot together in 
front of the breast. Now catch the halter strap in the 
left hand rather loosely, and, with the right hand, pull 
upon the cord with a sharp jerk ; this will so excite and 
frighten the colt that he will jump ahead, and after repeat- 
ing once or twice, will follow anywhere. Should the colt 
kick when the cord is pulled upon, it must not be repeated, 
as it would teach the habit of kicking. At once take it 
off, and make a noose around the body (as shown in cut), 

7 



OS COLT TEAININO. 

when it will be found that pulling quickly will so tighten 
the noose and hurt the back as to make the colt jump 
ahead in surprise, and he will soon learn to follow promptly. 
This does not require any skill, and will be found to work 
very nicely. It will be found especially valuable in teach- 
ing young, sensitive colts to lead. 

I will give another method of teaching colts to be 



Fig. 93. — When pulled upon very hard is liable to rear and 
throw himself over backward. 

gentle and follow without the use of the halter, — a method 
I practiced with great success during my early experi- 
ence, — which, when well done, will be found very effective. 
First, get the colt into a small room or carriage house. 
The smaller the inclosure the less inclined the colt will be 
to get away. Next, take a common five or six foot buggy 
whip, and, speaking kindly, approach him slowly, as he 
will bear. He will naturally get as far away into a corner 
as he can, but as soon as you see the least indication of 



TBACHmG TO FOLLOW. 



99 



fear, step back, showing an indifferent manner. When his 
alarm subsides, approach as before, and so continue to do 
until the mane can be touched and patted a little. This 
submitted to, bring the whip from behind you, quietly 
over his back, until it extends over the shoulder, so that 
the lash can be brought against the oj)posite side of his 
head a little below the eye, and commence tapping with it 




Fig. 94. — Eight way of pulling to teach the colt to lead. 

very lightly, gradually increasing the force of the stroke 
until the head is moved from it a little, when stop and 
caress ; so continue until he steps around toward you a 
little to get away from the force of the stroke. By re- 
peating the tapping, and striking a little harder^ as he 
learns to fear the whip he will be forced around in a circle 
at will. This may be done when the halter is on. If the 
whip is too limber and the lash too springy and long, it 



100 COLT TEAINING. 

will be difficult to do this properly, as it will be liable to 
be brought across the face in au irregular manner, fright- 
ening the colt and making him try to get away. Success 
will depend upon the Avhip being just right. 

The point made of forcing the colt around, step weU 
up to the head and drop the end of the whip back over the 
hips, touching the part lightly with it, or barely enough to 
move him, then step forward, when he will come ahead. 




Fig. 95. — Simple method of making a sullen colt follow instantly. 

Should he come ahead too far, he can be instantly stopped 
by bringing the lash to the first position and forcing him 
around again. Now repeat, not enough to frighten or hurt 
much, yet sufficient to force him around or ahead freely. 
It will help greatly to reward with apples, etc. It seldom 
requires more than five or ten minutes to teach a colt to 
follow in this way. (The principle is the same in teaching 
steers or oxen to drive with the whip, with the difference 
that when it is desired to stop the steer, to prevent him 
from running ahead, it may be necessary to put on a foot- 
strap, as explained in the first chapter. The foot-strap 



TEACHING TO FOLLOW. 



101 



would also be good for the colt, thougli I prefer, when re- 
straint is necessary, to use the halter.) 

During my first visit to Maine, in 1863-4, 1 advertised, 
the better to attract attention, that I would take any colt 
that had never been haltered, and within twenty minutes 
make him perfectly gentle to lead, ride, and handle. Daily 
the wildest colts to be found were driven in from the coun- 
try to put me to the test. In my run through the entire 
State I did not fail in a single instance, with the control of 




Fig. 



-The colt as he will usually follow after treatment. 



the whip alone, to lead such colts into the open street, with 
out halter or bridle. The feat was accomplished by train 
ing as explained. 

Another method, which has been practiced by som». 
traveling horsemen, is to turn the colt into a small inclos 
ure, and whip keenly with a bow whip, around the legs an( 
flanks. This will cause the colt in his fright and pain t 
run into a corner. As soon as he will turn his head arouni 
a little, the whipping is stopped and an effort made to read 
his head slowly, the hand being held out toward him whil<, 
doing so. Should the head be turned away, or resistanci 
be shown, the whipping is repeated, and this continued un 



102 COLT TEAINING. 

til he can be controlled. At each inclination to follow, he 
is caressed ; while for running away, or resistance, the whip 
is applied, until he soon learns to follow to avoid punish- 
ment. 

There are several objections to this method : First, the 
horse is greatly excited and frightened by the severity of 
the punishment, before he can know what it is for, which 
is entirely prevented by the other methods. Second, if 




Fig. or.— Teaching a colt to follow with the whip. 

the horse is warm-blooded and plucky, there is danger of 
teaching the most aggravating kind of kicking, as the in- 
tense excitement and pain of the whipping impresses the 
nervous system so greatly as to weaken and injure it, mak- 
ing what is termed a habit of nervous, switching kicking — 
a habit very difficult to overcome. The writer has at dif- 
ferent times found fine colts that had been treated in this 
manner by traveling horsemen, and completely spoiled. 
The other methods are so much simpler, and more humane, 
that there is no need whatever of resorting to such needless 
cruelty. 



DRIVING TO HARNESS. 



103 



If the colt is not very bad after being haltered, catch 
the halter up near the head, and go around with him on a 
sharp walk. At the same time bring the pole (one end of 
which being well back under the arm) against the quarters. 
The pulling around will sufficiently disconcert the horse to 
allow this without much resistance, and he will soon learn 
to submit, when repeat on the opposite side. It will be 
still better to put on the War Bridle, and after pulling 




Fig. 98. — Colt as he will follow after being trained with whip. 

around right and left, bring the pole against the quarters, 
legs, and flanks, as before explained. If the colt wiU sub- 
mit to this, it is all that is necessary to do, and just as ef- 
fective as if he were subjected to more powerful treatment. 

Driving to Harness. 

With the foundation laid of making the colt gentle to 
be touched, handled, and rode, the course I usually pursue 
to accustom the colt to drive in harness is about as foUows : 
Put on the harness, which should be so fitted as to rest 



104 



COLT TEAINING. 



easily upon the body, tie up the tugs and breeching straps, 
and bring the reins through the lugs or shaft bearers. This 
is very important, to prevent his turning around. Now 
get behind, holding the reins low on each side of the hips. 
If he does not start as desired, touch hghtly with a whip, 
and drive around a little, gradually pulling so as to drive 
him in long circles, and ahead, or either way, freely. If 
the mouth is hard, and he pulls upon the bit rather stub- 




FiG. 99. — Bringing the pole against the quarters. 

bornly, the Breaking Bit, if available, had better be substi- 
tuted. This wiU give all the power desired. 

After the drive, while standing, let an assistant bring 
a pole against the quarters and flanks until submitted to, 
then back the horse sharply against a rail or pole so ar- 
ranged that it wiU come against the quarters where the 
breeching or crosspiece of shafts comes. (See cut 101.) 
The resistance to this poling may sometimes be so serious 
as to necessitate subjecting again to Second Method, but 
not often if the first lesson is made very thorough. It will 
not do under any circumstances to proceed farther, until 



DEIVING TO HARI^ESS. 



105 



there is unconditional submission to this requirement. Then 
drive around moderately, either stopping to pole, or have 
an assistant do it gently until it can be done without at- 
tracting his notice in the least. A good way is to tie the 
hair of the tail into a knot quite short, so that a pole passed 
through the hair above it when pressed against the quar- 
ters will strike where the breeching comes. It is very im- 
portant to have the colt made thoroughly fearless of being 




Fig. 100.— Colt when first driven in harness. 

touched about the quarters and flanks in this way while 
driving. 

The next step is to make the point of reining, stopping, 
and backing. After he has learned to go ahead and turn 
sideways, he can easily be taught to stop. To do this, say 
" Whoa ! " sharply, and immediately give a slight, raking 
pull upon the reins sufficiently hard to compel stopping, 
then instantly slack. Usually, the colt will at first try to 
move ahead. Let him go a few steps, then repeat the com- 
mand, and, as before, pull sufficiently hard to stop him. 
So repeat until he learns to stop and stand quietly as long 
as desired. 

Next, stand behind and say, " Back ! " and immediately 



106 



COLT TEAINING. 



give a sharp, raking jerk to pull him back a little, and re- 
peat until he will back as desired. Do not force him to 
back too freely, but just enough to give to a slight pressure 
of the bit. If there is much resistance to the driving bit, 
the Breaking Bit may be substituted, but this must not be 
used so severely as to bruise or make the mouth sore. If 
he becomes warm and decidedly stubborn at any point, the 
better way will be to put him away until cool, when, by 
repeating the lesson, he will soon work in. At this point 




Fig, 101.— Backing the colt against rail or pole. 



there is great danger of spoiling the mouth, because when 
the blood becomes greatly heated, the sensibility of the 
mouth is so blunted that he will bear having it bruised and 
even cut to pieces without noticing it. But when over the 
excitement, it will be so sensitive and sore that he is liable 
not only to yield to the pressure of the bit too freely, but 
acquire the habit of running back. Hence the advisability 
of putting him away until cool, and then repeating the les- 
son, when the mouth will be sufficiently sensitive to com- 
pel submitting freely. If he is given to running away, and 
resists the bit so hard that he cannot be held, first, over- 



BITTING. 107 

come his fear of being touched around the quarters, etc., by 
the Second Method, then train tho mouth with the Break- 
ing Bit until manageable. I advise this training of the 
mouth, because, when properly done, it enables controlling 
afterward with an ordinary snaffle bit. 

It is not advisable in teaching to drive, to run one les- 
son into another, especially that of stopping and backing. 




Fig. 103. — Simple form of Bitting-rig. 

Backing should be taught very cautiously, so as not to teach 
the habit of going back too freely— a bad habit. 

Bitting. 

My course in most cases has been to continue the driv- 
ing to poles or wagon. But as bitting may be necessary, 
especially for headstrong colts, I will include directions 
here : — 

Simply put on such an outline of harness as will enable 



108 



COLT TEAmiNG. 




Fig. 1(1 "{ — t>ti lined, nnu itiii il position of 
the head when checked high. 



bringing pressure upon the mouth and holding it there. 
The ordinary arrangement is a surcingle with, crupper at- 
tachment, to which the check-rein is connected. This is so 
common and well^understood that it is unnecessary to go 

into an explanation of de- 
tails. There are great ob- 
jections to the common 
method of bitting, and 
putting the rig upon an 
entirely green, wild colt, 
checking the head up high, 
and turning him loose in 
this condition. The colt 
in his struggles for free- 
dom is liable to get mad, 
rear up, fall backward, 
and possibly kill himself. 
At any rate, the undue confinement irritates and excites 
him to a needless degree. 

The proper course would be about as follows : First, put 
on a bridle with a snaffle bit, leaving it on until he becomes 
accustomed to it. Next, put on any simple harness rig, 
and check at first so as to bring but little restraint upon 
the head, leaving it on thirty or forty minutes. Next day, 
check a little shorter, and let him run in a yard in the same 
manner. At each repetition, check shorter, until the head 
is brought as high as he will bear. 

Another excellent method is to fit a simple surcingle, 
having loops at different points on either side, and with 
crupper attachment. Put on an ordinary bridle with snaf- 
fle bit and gag-runners. Now take a piece of cord about 
the size used for War Bridle, and fasten its center, either 
bringing it over the water-hook, or held by a strap connect- 
ing with the saddle-part. Pass the ends forward through 



BITTING. 



109 



The higher the cord 




it should be carried. 



the gag-runners, down through the rmgs of the bit on each 
side, thence back through the loops on each side of the sur- 
cingle, and tie into the hip ring of the back-band sufl&ciently 
short to give the restraint required 
is held on each side, the 
greater the tendency to 
pull the head up and back, 
while the lower, the 
greater the tendency to 
pull the nose in ; so the 
length and height on ea li 
side must be regulated I 
suit the case. While 1 \ 
this means there is re- 
straint upon the head up 
and backward, the sliding 
of the line or cord through 
the rings and gag-runners gives sufficient freedom for the 
head to be brought down, thereby easing the weariness of 
the restraint. 

Training the mouth implies teaching it to submit freely 
to flexible restraint. Now bitting is only a partial step to- 
wards accomplishing this, as it only holds the head to a 
fixed position of restraint. Not infrequently, when the 
head is checked high and held there so long as to weary 
the muscles of the neck, the head is rested upon the bit 
for relief, and imperceptibly the habit of lugging is learned. 
Several other bad habits may also be learned by this indi- 
rect method of training the mouth ; the annoying habit of 
pulling on one rein, holding the head down when pulled 
upon, refusing to stand, back, or to rein freely, or refusing 
to rein but one way when excited or maddened. 

There has been practically no remedy for these diffi- 
culties, yet they are in most cases easily prevented or over- 



110 COLT TBAINING. 

come by the simple method of training the mouth with the 
Breaking Bit. 

If the colt does not rein freely, or pulls too heavily, 
put on the Breaking Bit, run the reins through the shaft lugs 
and drive around slowly. When the pull is too hard, give 
a little raking jerk, just enough to break the pull, then 
slack instantly, and so repeat. Do the same also for throw- 
ing the head down, and lugging, which will bring the head 
up and back. Simply repeat until the mouth submits freely 
to moderate restraint. Sometimes the horse will fight this 
quite hard for a time, the same as a stubborn, headstrong 
horse will resist the jerking or pulling upon the War Bridle 
in teaching to lead ; but by repeating, he will soon learn 
to submit to it unconditionally. There must be persever- 
ance until the point is made of submitting to the slightest 
restraint. If necessary, the lesson should be repeated 
when driving to wagon. It is surprising how easily the 
mouth is made to submit to restraint by a little training 
with this bit. (See details of using Breaking Bit under 
that head in first chapter.) 

Hitching to Wagon. 

With sufficient control of the mouth to hold the horse 
under any excitement, the next step is to drive to wagon. 
As it is sometimes a little risky to do this directly, driving 
to poles should be resorted to first. In fact, I regard this 
necessary, because it accustoms the colt to being touched 
around the quarters, backing against the crosspiece, etc., 
with entire safety. Hitch the colt into these poles with- 
out breeching, and drive around, turning right and left, and 
backing against the crosspiece occasionally to fix the im- 
pression of being touched by it. 

Before hitching to wagon, all fear of any rattle, or noise 
from behind, must be overcome. Next, hitch the horse in, 



HITCHING TO WAGOK. 



Ill 



and before attaching the tugs, run the crosspiece against 
the quarters to overcome all fear of the shafts. Be very 
particular that the harness is iBtted so as not to restrain 
the circulation, or bring any undue pressure upon any part 
of the body. In my practice I give the head entire free- 
dom, using nothing but the restraint of the reins, as it tends 
to confuse and annoy the colt to be needlessly hampered 
in any way. If desirable to guard against any possible 
impulse of resistance, attach a strap to the fore foot, by 




Fig. 105. — Testing the colt by driving in poles. 

which it can be taken up at any time. This wiU prevent 
kicking. I would also add here that it is always advisable, 
when the colt is standing in the shafts, before being at- 
tached, to shake and rattle the wagon ; then move him 
ahead and pull the wagon behind. 

Another point: The colt should always be hitched 
where the road is wide and level, or in a field, giving a 
chance to drive around and turn easily. At first let him 
go any way he will, giving him a moderately slack rein. 
If the previous work has been well done, the colt will be 
as gentle, and indifferent to excitement as any old horse. 



11^ Colt teaiis^ikg^. 

But if not subdued and made thorouglily gentle and fear- 
less, as before explained, there is danger, in exceptionally 
bad cases, of his getting frightened and kicking, and thus 
a great point is lost. It is, in fact, almost fatal to success 
to let a horse by carelessness or accident resist at any 
point, as it makes him cunning and doubtful — a condition 
that sometimes requires very careful, thorough work to 
overcome. 

There should be no effort to make a drive until the colt 
is accustomed to turning, stopping, and starting, but not to 
backing ; let that come after the going ahead and stopping 
is thoroughly established, when repeat the lesson on back- 
ing a little. At first, the driving should be confined to a 
walk, then gradually let out to a moderate trot, being care- 
ful not to drive to the point of exhaustion. If the colt 
steps well, and it is desired to cultivate a fast trotting gait, 
there is more necessity for going slowly. First, let him 
out on a smooth, moderately descending road, holding up 
. often, and speaking to him kindly. Gradually he can be 
let out faster and a little farther, but not to the point of 
breaking, nor so far at any time as to cause fatigue. If it 
is intended to hitch to top carriage, drive around first with 
an umbreUa held over the head, bringing it over the back. 
Next, lead him around so that he can look into the top and 
smell of it, then lead him into the shafts and hitch. 

The custom of using bhnders on horses, especially as 
usually put on, in a haphazard way of pressing against and 
covering up the eyes, is an abomination which should be 
dispensed with in driving. They are admissible only when 
the horse is lazy or cunning, watching the whip, etc. Any 
horse of intelligence and courage will always drive more 
reliably when able to see around and behind him. 



gtlLLEN COLTS. 



113 



Sometimes a colt, becoming heated and sullen, refuses to 
rein, or lunges sideways. If very bad, subject sharply to 
Second Method while the harness is on, following with the 
treatment by the War Bri- 
dle until perfectly sub- 
missive to it ; then do up 
the cord and commence 
driving again. If there 
is disinclination to rein, 
drop the reins, untie the 
cord, and jerk him in the 
opposite direction until he 
will come freely, when tie 
again loosely into the ter- 
ret, take up the reins, and 
go on with the lesson. It 
is very important, in les- 
sons of this character, that 
the head be not hampered 
in any way by extra rig- 
ging of any kind ; nothing 
should be upon it but an 
easily-fitting bridle. The 
harness in all cases should 
fit easily, so as not to ir- 
ritate by its pressure or 
restraint. The lesson is 
to be continued by driv- 
ing to poles, etc., as be- 
fore explained. It may 
also be necessary to use 
the Breaking Bit, but this must be used cautiously on colts, 
as it is easy to make the mouth too sensitive with it, which 
must be guarded against. 




114 COLT TEAINING. 

Throwing over Backward. 

Sometimes colts acquire the habit of throwing them- 
selves down, or over backward. This is one of the few 
habits for which there has been no practical remedy, yet 
when subjected to proper treatment, it will not, as a general 
thing, be found difficult to overcome. Subject quickly to 
Second Method, and get him so confused and off his bal- 




FiG. 107. — Colts as usually made to follow on a run by a few 
minutes' treatment before the class. 

ance that he cannot concentrate his purpose to throw him- 
self. Let the lesson be made sharp, following quickly with 
War Bridle. Sometimes it may be necessary to use the 
Third Method ; then put in harness and drive around as 
first explained. If well done, it is rarely the colt will try 
to throw himself afterward ; should he do so, repeat more 
thoroughly with the Third Method, after which, with the 
Second, and, while yet confused, drive him around, at first 
rapidly, then more slowly until found reliable. 

These cases have been very common in my practice. 
By way of illustration I will refer to two cases, one of the 
colts being sold when three years old for $150. In trying 



THEOWING OVEE BACKWAED. 115 

to break him, he acquired the habit so badly of throwing 
himself down that it was impossible to drive him in harness. 
He resisted every effort to break him, consequently, when 
six years old he was sold for $50. He was brought in 
without my being informed as to his true character, for the 
purpose of breaking me down. He yielded readily, how- 
ever, to the Second and Third Methods, driving anywhere 
as gentle as desired. The other, eight years old, had re- 
sisted every effort to be broken, and had the habit so badly 
that whenever the reins, or even the halter, were pulled 
upon a little while leading, he would throw himself down. 
A horse-breaker, who took the job of breaking him for $25, 
joined my class at Elyria, Ohio, and brought him in to be 
experimented upon. In a chance way, when taking him 
by the halter to look him over, I happened to pull a little 
to make him follow, when instantly he threw himself over 
backward. The man thought it a good joke, and laughed, 
saying, " He is a good one. If you can keep him on his 
feet while driving, you will break the worst horse that ever 
lived. I can't break him, and I don't know of any one who 
can, so I brought him in for you to try your hand upon." 
I put the harness on the horse carefully, aU ready to 
drive, tied up the reins so I could take them down quickly, 
and subjected him sharply to the Second Method. When 
he became so dizzy as to be at the point of falling, I quickly 
pulled the halter-strap loose, grasped the reins, and gave 
him a cut or two with the whip across the hind legs, at the 
same time yelling " Get up ! " to frighten him ahead. He 
jumped before he knew what he was at, and after a few 
moments' pushing in this way he could be driven without 
showing any incUnation to repeat the habit. The lesson, 
though requiring but a few minutes, proved effectual. 
Occasionally horses of this character may bother consider- 
ably. Such are usually of a cold-blooded, sullen nature, 



but it is only a matter of a little more care and extra work, 
to make them work in submissively. It is advisable in all 
these cases to test thoroughly for two or three days, before 
driving. 

Driving Double. 

We first drive the colt double because easier. If this 
is desirable, subject first to Second Method, making him 
gentle to be touched around the quarters and parts gener- 
ally, so that there will be no* fear when touched by the 
tugs or whiffletree. Put on the off side first, because less 
liable to be excited there, then reverse to the near side. 

Hitching the Colt. 

In most cases when the colt is taught to follow freely 
as before explained, there will be but little inclination to 
try to pull loose when hitched by the halter, especially 
if the stall is wide, and the hitching part of the halter is 
left rather long. But as it is the best proof of skill to guard 
against successful resistance at any point, such precautions 
must be taken as will prevent it. It must be borne in mind 
that learning to stand when hitched, above any other con- 
dition of training, should be so thoroughly taught that there 
will be no inclination to pull, even when subjected to the 
greatest excitement or fear, as from dogs or hogs running 
in front, cats or hens jumping or flying around the manger, 
the blowing of newspapers, etc., near the head. The 
surest and best method for overcoming this fear is as fol- 
lows : — 

Take a large size War Bridle cord of the best quality 
about twenty-eight to thirty feet long, double it, and make 
a noose of the doubled end around the body a little back 
of where the saddle rests. Bring the other ends forward 
between the fore legs, through the ring or hole in the man- 



HITOlimG BY THE HALTER. I17 

ger and tie to the ring of the halter back of the jaw. The 
length must be so regulated that the horse can step around 
as freely as if tied rather long by a common halter. If 
there is an inclination to go back when in any way excited, 
the noose draws so tightly around the body, and presses so 
keenly upon the back bone, that the colt is at once disa- 
bled, hurt, and frightened, so that the first impulse is to 
jump ahead. A few repetitions will convince him of his 
inability to pull loose, as well as create in him such a fear 
of pulling, that he cannot be induced to repeat it. Hitch 




Fig. 108,— Proper method of hitching the colt at first. 

in this way in the stall a few times until there is ilo incli- 
nation to pull loose, after which he can be hitched with en- 
tire safety, directly by the head. 

By this mode of treatment, there is no danger of the 
colt straining or hurting himself, or pulling himself down — 
a very objectionable habit — or to pull loose when first 
hitched. It teaches him to submit unconditionally to the 
restraint of the halter upon the head under the greatest ex- 
citement. 

For extended details of hitching by the halter, and hal- 
ter puUing, see chapter under that head. 



CHAPTER III. 



EXCESSIVE FEAR.— ITS EFFECTS. 



It is quite wonderful to what a degree the nervous sys- 
tem can be shaken or deranged by a sudden fright or in- 
tense fear. So susceptible is the mind to this influence 




Fig. 109. — The colt excited by fear. 

that not infrequently very trifling causes in themselves 
make such an impression upon children and sensitive per- 
sons as to produce convulsions and insanity that may in 
some cases end in death. Even large audiences are sonie^ 
times so panic-stricken by the cry of fire^ or some other 

(118) 



GENEEAL REMAEKS. 119 

cause of danger, as to seem insensible to reason. Under 
such circumstances, many men and women become so de- 
mented that they are most likely to do just what they 
should not. For example, they will try to save things of 
no value, and leave valuable property to be destroyed, 
throw mirrors and other fragile articles from upper story 
windows, without realizing they must be broken ; be un- 
able to dress, or will get on garments the wrong way, etc. 

Now the horse is liable to be excited and deranged in 
the same manner. It is well understood how difficult it is 
to get horses out of a burning building ; and if by blind- 
folding, etc., they are taken out, when given freedom their 
confusion and excitement is so intense that they are apt to 
rush back into the fire. On the sudden approach of a train, 
or blowing of the whistle, a horse in crossing the track is 
liable to become so paralyzed that he cannot be forced across 
in time to prevent a collision. It is not uncommon to have 
a horse frightened to death in this way. 

To illustrate, I will include an account of a few such 
cases that comprise the record of a few days only : — 

"In Rochester, N. Y., the other day, a horse was so frightened at an 
engine letting off steam that it trembled, and in a moment fell dead from 
fright." 

" At White Plains, New York, a horse was so frightened by a locomo- 
tive whistle that he dropped dead. " 

" Two very remarkable cases of horses being frightened to death occur- 
red in Fairmount Park, Phil. , within the past few days. Last Thursday the 
horse of P. Wallace, of Seventeenfi and Catharine streets, became unman- 
ageable, through fright at a train of cars on Mifflin Lane. The occupants of 
the carriage alighted, and Mr. Wallace undertook to drive the horse off to 
quiet it, when it dropped dead. " 

"During Monday the horse of Mr. Zeiss, Ridge avenue and Jefferson 
street, ran away by fright at a passing steamboat. Guard Ledlie caught the 
animal, when Mr. Zeiss said he could then manage the horse and started off. 
The horse went off all right for about 60 yards, when he aga'in ran away and 
went 15 or 20 feet, when he dropped dead. " 

Colts or unbroken horses are especially susceptible to 
fear. Almost every step in their management, as shown 
in Colt Training, lies in overcoming resistance excited by 



120 



FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 




Fig. 110. — Nervous, excitable character. 



fear. It is the principal cause of kicking and running away, 
as well as many other annoying or dangerous habits, which 
make the horse partially or wholly worthless for use. 

A colt that once had the habit of feeding around and 

poaching in neighboring 
yards, was so gentle and 
indifferent to fear that 
he could scarcely be 
driven away. In order 
to frighten him off, an 
old tin pail was tied to 
his tail and a dog set on 
him. At first he cared 
nothing about it, but 
when he started to run, 
the pail rattled and 
thumped against his heels so severely that he became fright- 
ened, and kicked. The faster he ran, the more the pail 
rattled and thumped against his legs, and he ran until he 
was exhausted. As the result, his nervous system was so 
shaken and injured that afterward the stirring of the grass, 
or drawing of a stick on the ground behind him, would so 
excite him that he would scringe, switch, and kick. 

The effect is the same upon a colt or horse, which by 
some accident or imprudence has been excited to kick and 
run away while hitched to a wagon. The striking of the 
wagon against the legs in kicking, makes him think it is the 
wagon hitting and hurting him, and he tries in the most 
desperate manner to get away or free himself from it ; so 
the fear, kicking, and running are increased until freed from 
the wagon, disabled, or caught. Thus the wagon becomes 
the same in respect to frightening and exciting the horse 
and spoiling him, that the tin pail was in frightening the 
colt. The same effect, of exciting and frightening the 



GENEEAL EEMAEKS. 



121 




Fig. 111. 



-Extreme of a wild, vicious 
nature. 



horse as by sudden or unexpected contact Avith objects or 
sounds, are produced in various ways. Now, as these dif- 
ficulties are entirely preventable by proper treatment, the 
importance of understanding and applying it can be appre- 
ciated. 

A horse's way of reasoning is limited to his experience 
in seeing, hearing, and feel- 
ing. When convinced in 
this way that an object or 
sound will not hurt him, no 
matter how objectionable 
or repugnant it may have 
previously seemed in ap- 
pearance, it will be re- 
garded with entire indif- 
ference. It is remarkable 
also what a degree of in- 
sensibility to fear, or how much confidence can be inspired 
when proper treatment is applied. For instance : Let a 
pole be brought suddenly or unexpectedly against the quar- 
ters of a wild colt, and he will instantly jump, snort, and 
kick, showing the greatest fear of it. If this be repeated 
for a few times, the fear, kicking, and effort to get away 
will be greatly increased. If, on the contrary, the pole 
were slowly and gently brought to the nose, so that he can 
smell of it, then passed over the mane and back, gently 
rubbing the parts, and gradually extending it over the hips 
and across the quarters lightly, increasing the force of the 
contact as he will bear, at the same time attracting his at- 
tention, and quieting his fear by stroking the head, talking 
to him, or giving apples, etc., a few repetitions, requiring 
in all, perhaps not more than ten or fifteen minutes, will 
make the colt entirely fearless and indifferent to being 
touched. 



12.2 



FEAR— ITS EFFECTS. 




I was once present when a team of four horses was har- 
nessed for the first time to a band wagon. With the first 
note, the horses were excited to such intense fear that it 
was only by the greatest effort they were kept from run- 
ning away, though the band stopped playing instantly. I 

directed the men to get out and 
go back about fifteen rods. In 
the meantime, I took the most 
excitable horse by the bridle, 
stroked his nose, talked to him 
quietly, and directed the others 
to be treated in a like manner. 
They were greatly excited ; the 
one I held fairly shook with 
fear. After a few minutes, I 
directed the band to commence 
very lightly upon one or two in- 
struments at first, the others af- 
terward to gradually start in. This slight commencement 
was repeated several times before the horses would bear it 
without showing great excitement. I then directed them to 
play louder, and increase the tone gradually until up to the 
full force of all the instruments and drums. This point 
made, while playing they came forward very slowly, got in 
and commenced again in the lightest possible manner, grad- 
ually increasing the sound until they played again with 
fuU force. I now directed the band to keep quiet while 
the team was driven a short distance, then, as before, com- 
mence lightly and slowly, gradually playing louder until 
the horses appeared indifferent to the sound. The result 
was that in less than twenty minutes the band paraded the 
streets, playing as they pleased, the horses entirely gentle, 
in fact, appearing to enjoy the music. Here we see such 
marked excitement and fear shown from hearing a sudden, 



Fig. 113. — Docile, intelligent 
character. 



GBNEKAL EBMAEKS. 



123 



unexpected sound, as to precipitate the most violent resist- 
ance, and the contrary of soon quieting down and becoming 
indifferent to it, by convincing the reason that it would not 
cause injury. 

Understanding these effects, we will now consider con- 
ditions. Suppose we wish to accustom a colt to the sight 
of a piece of paper or a white handkerchief. It is first 
brought to his nose so that he is able to feel of it, and see 
it plainly, then rubbed against the head and neck until it 
ceases to attract attention. 
If now the operator were 
to step behind or opposite 
the flanks, and throw it 
suddenly behind or under 
the belly, it would be very 
likely to excite as much 
fear and resistance as if 
he had not before seen or 
felt it. The difference of 
position makes it appear a 
new object of danger to 
be avoided. Familiarized with it at the head, it should be 
thrown down carelessly in front, then a little further back, 
occasionally rubbing it against the head and nose, and so 
repeating until it can be thrown anywhere around or under 
the body ; this must also be done on both sides of the body 
alike. 

A spirited horse that may have been driven for years 
to a wagon, gentle, would be just as likely to kick and run 
away should the breeching break and let the cross-piece or 
whiffletree come against the quarters, as if he had previ- 
ously known nothing about them. And so in relation to 
other objects or causes of resistance. This is particularly 
noticeable in breaking colts, as shown by the fact that mak- 




FiG. 113. — Sullen, treacherous character. 



124 



FEAR— ITS EFFECTS. 



ing one side or leg gentle will not make other parts so ; 
both sides must be treated alike. It is on account of these 
conditions npt being understood (the details of which are 
given in Colt Training, Kicking, etc.) that so many acci- 
dents occur from the use of horses supposed to be gentle 
and safe. They are gentle so far as they have been broken 
or accustomed to certain objects or sounds, but when sub- 
jected to changes, the impulse of kicking, running away. 




_^^=^ 


V Ifllff^ ^Ke 


=^p^ 


^^-"^-^^V^ 1^ 


^ 


— =- — ^^=3^^g 


■■■==s 


,^s=^^^^ 


~ 


^it- 



Fig. 114. — Simple Treatment — bringing the pole over the back 
and quarters until no fear of it is shown. 

etc., is as liable to occur as if they were entirely unbroken. 
Hence we say that the great majority of such accidents are 
the direct result of ignorance and bad treatment. In break- 
ing colts, as explained under that head, if the trainer is in 
no hurry, and does not wish to resort to coercive treatment, 
the confidence of the colt can be easily won by scratching 
the mane, giving apples, etc. After being haltered, com- 
mence rubbing along the back with a pole, extending it 
down the hips and legs, and giving an apple, etc. Where 
much fear is shown, bring the pole to the first point and 



RATTLE OF A WAGON. 12^ 

work again back to that which is sensitive. In this way 
continue the rubbing or scratching about the hips, quarters, 
or flanks until no fear of it is shown. Or a short hold can 
be taken of the halter, and, while stepping around, sharply 
pull the colt after ; then bring the pole smoothly, but lightly, 
against the quarters and hips until submissive to it. This 
slow and direct method of treatment is as good and lasting 
as when controlled by direct subjective treatment, which is 
necessary only when resistance is great. 

Fear of Rattle of Wagon. 

If the horse is afraid of the rattle of a wagon, restrain 
or overcome his resistance as may be necessary by one or 
more of the methods of subjection. Next, accustom the 
horse to being touched on the quarters, etc., with a pole. 
.Put on the harness with Patent Bridle, or Breaking Bit, to 
insure holding him easily, bring him in front of the shafts, 
and have some one rattle the wagon until the horse is re- 
gardless of it. Now carefully put him between the shafts, 
and let the wheels and body of the wagon be shaken 
again ; then drop the shafts upon the ground and repeat. 
Should the horse at any time try to run ahead, pull him 
back sharply until he will stand quietly without resistance. 
Now hitch him up and drive moderately at first, making a 
noise by a stick running across the spokes, etc. Gradually 
let out to a trot and run, compelling him to stop occasion- 
ally at the command to " whoa." In the meantime, as 
there is submission, treat kindly. This will not usually 
be found a difficult habit to overcome. In making experi- 
ments before classes on this kind of cases, which were very 
common, it rarely required more than fifteen or twenty 
minutes to hitch up and drive such safely, even without 
breeching. 



126 FBAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

Jumping out of the Shafts. 

To make a colt entirely safe and reliable in shafts, he 
should be thoroughly accustomed to objects striking against 
his quarters or legs. It is not sufficient that he is accus- 
tomed to being touched around the tail, or even flanks ; for 
though brought to submit to this, there will be no assur- 
ance of his being gentle should the shafts strike lower down 
on his quarters or legs. In my practice I always make it 
a point, even after the colt is proved gentle, while he is 
standing between the shafts to pull them against the legs 
both ways, letting them drop down sharply on the ground, 
etc., until he is entirely indifferent to their noise or con- 
tact. When a horse is not properly trained to this, if the 
breeching is not unbuckled when he is unhitched, there 
is danger of his becoming frightened from the breeching 
pulling the shafts sideways against the legs, and bringing 
its pressure upon another part. Under such circumstan- 
ces a horse, if at all sensitive, is apt to become very much 
frightened, kick, and jump around until loose, and is ever 
afterward, the moment unhitched, ready to jump out of the 
shafts. The habit, as a rule, is easy to overcome. Simply 
accustom the quarters to be touched, and treat practically as 
before explained. 

Top Carriage. 

A very little precaution in preventing excessive fear 
will save a great deal of trouble. In no respect is this 
more strongly illustrated than in the fear of a top carriage. 
Because a horse drives gently to an open carriage, it is ta- 
ken for granted he must know enough to drive to one with 
a top, and hence the trouble. The horse should first be 
driven around moderately, the driver carrying over his head 



OBJECTS BXCITII^G FEAR 127 

an open umbrella, which appears to the horse like the top 
of a carriage. It should be shaken around and over the 
horse's body gently until it does not attract his attention 
in the least. Now lead the horse to the carriage, and let 
him feel and smell of the top, and, while doing so, raise and 
lower it. Then lead him around the carriage, shaking and 
rattling the top at intervals. Next lead him into the shafts 
so as to bring the head over the dash. If sensitive, caress 
and talk to him, and reward as before. Turn the horse 
around in the shafts, lowering and raising the top until it 
can be brought up and thrown back without attracting his 
notice. While the top is up, put the shafts through the 
lugs so as to bring the horse into position, attach the har- 
ness, and start him on a walk or moderate trot, repeating 
the raising and lowering of the top until it is disregarded, 
when he can be driven right along. 

If an extreme case, it will be necessary to first compel 
submission by subjective treatment, and getting thorough 
control of the mouth with the Breaking Bit or Patent Bri- 
dle. There must be no half-way work. Make every step 
sure, and go slowly until the horse can be put in shafts as 
before explained, and driven without showing fear. This 
work must in all cases be done out of doors. It may also 
be necessary to repeat the lesson once or twice, so far as 
leading around, feeling and smelling of the carriage, are 
concerned. It is only a matter of a little work and care in 
this way to make almost any horse entirely gentle and 
fearless. 

Objects Exciting Fear while Riding or Driving. 

In overcoming the horse's fear of objects while riding 
or driving, very much depends upon the treatment. If but 
partially broken, and sensitive, it will help very much to 
put him through a course of subjection. Sometimes, horses 



1^8 FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

so exceedingly sensitive they can hardly be driven with 
any degree of safety, after being treated are entirely fear- 
less in driving. This is seen in the effect produced by the 
treatment upon the wild colt. The subjection of " Wild 
Pete," and other horses referred to at the conclusion of this 
chapter, are good illustrations of the remarkable effect of 
this treatment. 

If the horse drives gentle, but is afraid of some special 
object, such as a white stone, stump, sheep, etc., take all 
the precaution possible against his seeing such things sud- 
denly and unexpectedly. As soon as his alarm is excited, 
if at all violent, the best way is to stop hiin, speak encour- 
agingly, and hold him quiet until his alarm subsides, then 
let him go on, quieting him until the object is reached or 
passed by. 

Many horses comparatively safe are liable to be fright- 
ened by suddenly meeting a drove of sheep, load of hay, 
white cow, sprinkling wagon, etc. For safety, it is better 
for a few times to get out and take the horse by the head 
and hold or lead him in part. Particular care should be 
taken not to expose him to the sudden meeting of a brass 
band and drums. If he is a crazy headed fellow that seems 
all right until he sees something and then loses his senses, 
lunging into the fence, or turning around quickly, there is 
so much danger of being upset that unless there is certainty 
of making him thoroughly safe, he should be condemned 
for such use. If he will keep well up to the bit there 
should be no trouble in preventing his going sideways by 
either the Breaking Bit or Patent Bridle. 

The Bit gives power in but two ways, — sideways and 
ahead ; so if the horse will not go against it and runs back 
when suddenly frightened, or turns around quickly, there 
is practically but very little power to prevent it, except 
what can be done with the whip and speaking sharply. 



PEAE OF EOBE. 129 

Hence the great danger and imprudence, of using suchi horses 
for single carriage driving. 

A E.OBE. 

The sight of a buffalo robe will sometimes excite great 
fear in a horse. In ordinary cases the fear of it can be 
easily overcome as follows : While holding the horse by a 
halter, or War Bridle, which would be better, stand on the 
off side of the head, and bring the robe up to the right 
side, so that he can see and smell of it. If this is borne, 
with a quick jerk-like movement swing it over the head, 
covering it completely, and go around with him, keeping 
on either side of the head until he will stop and stand 
quietly. The first movement determines the success or 
failure of the experiment. The point is to get it over the 
head so quickly that the horse cannot see the movement, 
when the terror of it wiU almost immediately subside. 
Then draw it backward and forward, finally pulling it off 
and throwing it on, and so repeat until it can be thrown 
over the body or around the horse in any manner. 

If there is failure by this method, which is something 
of a sleight, take the following course : First, get good con- 
trol with the War Bridle. Next, while holding the horse 
firmly with one hand, with the other bring the robe gently 
to his nose, letting him smell and feel of it, when, gradually, 
as he will bear, bring it up over the head, neck, and body ; 
then stand off a little way, and throw it upon him, and re- 
peat until it can be thrown upon him at a distance of eight 
or ten feet without exciting fear. Both sides must be 
treated alike. 

No matter what is done, the treatment must always 
commence at the nose and head, and gradually work back, 
as before explained. To overcome all fear of the robe, it 
may be necessary to repeat the lesson several times. If 

9 



130 FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

the robe cannot be brought near the horse with safety by 
the control of the War Bridle, the resistance must be over- 
come by First or Second Methods of Subjection. The 
Breaking Rig, if available, would be still simpler and bet- 
ter. Occasionally there may be found cases in which the 
intensest fear may be shown, for which the treatment should 
be made exceptionally careful and thorough. Cases 5 and 



Fig. 115. -^Letting colt feel and smell of an umbrella. 

7, referred to at the close of this chapter, are good illus- 
trative subjects. 

When treated by Second Method, the horse may strike 
and kick so recklessly as the robe is brought near, it may 
be necessary to hang it upon the end of a pole to bring it 
near the head with safety. It will aid greatly to give the 
horse apples, etc., after submitting. 

Umbrella or Parasol. 

For an ordinary case of a horse being afraid of an um- 
brella or parasol, bring one while closed, gently to the nose, 
passing it back over the head and neck ; then open it a lit- 



FBAB OF GUN. 131 

tie and repeat until it can be fully spread and brought over 
and around the body generally. Now go off some distance, 
and again approach slowly, and hold it over the head. If, 
at any point, there is much fear evinced, close it and let 
the horse see and smell of it, when again repeat the ex- 
periment; so continue until the horse can be approached 
in any manner while swinging the umbrella over the head, 




Fig. 116. — Bringing umbrella over the head. 

without attracting notice. No matter how well the horse 
behaves, the umbrella should not at any time be forced 
upon him so quickly or unexpectedly as to excite him. To 
do so would endanger undoing the good impression previ- 
ously made. The lesson should be repeated as for other 
objects. 

Sound op a G-un. 

If the horse is afraid of the sound of a gun, first, snap 
caps some distance from him, gradually going nearer and 



132 FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

repeating until it can be done over the body, neck, and 
bead, occasionally patting and rubbing the head and neck 
with the hand; then repeat, putting in small charges of 
powder and coming nearer, and so continue until a full 
charge can be fired over or near the horse, as desired. 

Hogs and Dogs. 

Sometimes a dog or hog by running under a colt will 
excite intense fear. If very bad, get good control by sub- 
jecting to First and Second Methods, and drive around in 
harness in a small yard where there are hogs until they will 
not attract attention. Next, hitch to a wagon, and repeat 
the driving slowly. These cases usually require several 
repetitions of treatment. 

Railroad Cars. 

When a horse has been frightened by a locomotive or 
train of cars, it is sometimes a very difficult matter to over- 
come the fear, mainly on account of the inability to control 
the movement of the cars. The simplest and best course 
for all average cases will be about as follows : — 

Drive the horse around in harness, so far away from 
the engine as not to excite much fear, and gradually drive 
back and forth in long circles, and closer, stopping occasion- 
ally to give a piece of apple, or something, talking and rub- 
bing the head and neck awhile. Sometimes it may be ad- 
visable to use the War Bridle ; but, as a general thing, it 
would be better to teach him confidence by driving around 
near the train. This should be repeated until he can be 
driven around, and quite close, without offering resistance. 
Now drive around to a wagon or sulky ; if to a wagon, get 
one that will allow turning short circles without upsetting. 
To work surely, it is necessary to work slowly. Of course 
it will be necessary to have absolute control over the mouth. 



RAILROAD CARS. 133 

In this way a horse can be driven with comparative safety 
near or about moving or stationary trains. Anything like 
complicated rigging for the control of such horses will be 
found comparatively worthless. If the horse cannot be 
driven with safety after the treatment given, the risk is too 
great ; he had better be discarded for driving near the cars. 

It may be asked, how I have been able to make horses 
so fearless of the cars that they can be led up to an engine, 
or driven near, with indifference. The course I have usu- 
ally pursued is as follows : First, get the horse under good 
control by a course of subjection, usually by the First or 
Second Method, or both ; then make arrangements with the 
engineer to let off steam plentifully, and rush the horse, 
with the harness on, into it until completely covered, when 
he will soon cease to care anything about the noise, etc. If 
this cannot be done, drive him around, gradually going 
nearer the engine, until indifferent to it. 

Much depends, in the first place, upon getting the horse 
under good control ; second, in the management while in 
the neighborhood of the engine. A good way, sometimes, 
is to blindfold the horse and drive near the train until quiet, 
then let him see out of one eye, gradually moving him 
around, and let him see out of both eyes. Very much can 
be done in this way. The horse should be hitched to a 
wagon and driven at every available opportunity about or 
near the cars. 

There is one point to which I would call particular at- 
tention : The horse may appear perfectly gentle after being 
treated, but when the position is changed, as when taken 
from a building into the street, or from the street into a 
building, or if allowed to stand for some time, he will, upon 
trial, seem to be as much afraid as ever, but upon repeti- 
tion of treatment it will require only a very few minutes to 
make him as fearless as before. 



13^ FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

Prenatal Causes. 

In this connection I would call attention to indirect 
causes of fear which should be guarded against. For 
example : A farmer who kept a small dairy had the cows 
driven to and from the pasture by a trained dog, which bit 
and frightened one of them severely. A neighbor had a 
very wild cow, which had been treated gently. Both 
cows having steer calves, the owner of the wild cow bought 
the calf raised by the neighbor for the purpose of match- 
ing his own to make a yoke of steers. When he tried to 
train them, he found the one out of the gentle cow that 
had been frightened, exhibited such uncontrollable fear of 
dogs, and became so wild when he saw or heard one bark, 
that he could do nothing with him, and so sold him for 
beef. The incident was related to me by the owner, who 
was a member of my class, upon my advancing the theory 
that great extremes of fear or viciousness were sometimes 
the effect of prenatal causes. 

Soon afterward, in the same neighborhood, a five-year- 
old colt was brought in to be experimented upon before a 
class. He was extremely wild and difficult to approach 
and, as the owner stated, had never been touched or 
handled by any one. Upon remarking that there must 
have been some good cause for this, and that usually such 
extreme fear and sensibility was the result of abuse to the 
mother, the owner said, " That is true," and then gave me 
the following facts concerning him : " When the stallion 
was brought to serve the mare, he acted badly, and was 
disposed to resist the groom, for which he was taken behind 
the barn and severely whipped. In this condition, while 
very much excited, he was put to the mare. When the 
colt came, he was so wild that no one could get near 
enough to touch him." 



mSANITY. 135 

It being impossible, with safety, to go near enough to 
this colt to touch him, the halter was put on with pole, as 
explained in " Colt Training," when he was easily subjected 
to Second Method, by which he was made so gentle and 
manageable in about fifteen minutes that he was harnessed 
and driven to breaking-cart, without breeching, acting as 
well as any ordinary, quiet colt. 

A great many cases illustrating the effects of bad 
treatment at such times, have been repeatedly brought to 

my notice. 

Insanity. 

It is not uncommon to find horses insanely afraid of 
some particular object, as blood, or the sound of the cars, 
etc., while perfectly indifferent to other objects or sounds. 
The causes we cannot always trace, though we can see 
the effects. In all ordinary cases, there is but little 
difficulty in overcoming such fear by proper treatment, 
but it is possible to find cases so extreme as to render it 
difficult, if not impossible, to make reasonably safe. I am 
satisfied, as before explained, that many of the extreme 
cases of this character which I have treated, have been the 
effect of prenatal causes. But the nervous system can be 
so impressed by direct causes of fear and injury as to 
destroy life or produce insanity, as shown by reference to 
several cases in the first part. 

This insanity in horses is shown by the intense re- 
pugnance to special objects and sounds. Horses that have 
once been frightened by something giving out, or running 
against the hind quarters, cutting or injuring them, per- 
haps severely, are afterward uncontrollably afraid of the 
noise of the wagon, or the shafts touching the parts. One 
of the worst horses I ever handled was a small bay, in 
Vermont, that was perfectly gentle, except being afraid of 
the shafts touching one quarter. This was caused by the 



136 FEAB.— ITS EFFECTS. 

shaft having run into Ms quarter. Ordinary cases of this 
kind yield to treatment in a few moments. Some nervous 
systems are susceptible to very intense impressions when 
once excited, and there will be corresponding difficulty in 
overcoming them. Therefore success must be determined 
as much by the intensity of the habit, as by the treatment. 
The success of the treatment will depend upon the direct- 
ness with which the brain can be influenced ; but success 
in getting up a reaction and changing the character as de- 
sired, must be equally the result of the amount of resist- 
ance, viciousness, or derangement of the nervous system. 
These are points which should be studied, since frequently 
even a minor habit, or apparently trifling form of resist- 
ance, may cause a great deal of trouble to be overcome, 
because of the intensely susceptible as well as positive 
character of the case. 

I include here an account of a few representative 
cases, out of the many to which reference could, if neces- 
sary, be made, mainly for the purpose of showing the re- 
markable change of character that may be produced in a 
horse when subjected to proper treatment. 

Case I. 

When at Buffalo, New York, an eight-year-old sorrel 
horse, owned by William Press, of Gowanda, was brought as 
a subject for experiment. This horse when six years old 
was used to plow corn. The whiflfletree coming accident- 
ally against his quarters, so frightened him that he kicked 
and ran away, tearing the cultivator to pieces. Every 
effort to work him afterward only intensified his fear. 
Four or five times in succession he kicked loose and ran 
away, becoming wholly unmanageable. 

Mr. Press was a leading horseman in the town. He 
had recently taken lessons in the art with a number of 



ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 



137 




Fig. 117. — Press Horse, after 
being subdued. 



others, and they concluded to try their skill on the sorrel. 

Five of them assembled on the following Sunday, and 

worked half a day on the horse, 

using nearly thirty dollars' 

worth of rigging. The result 

was, that after doing all they 

could, when they tried to hitch 

and drive the horse, he kicked 

himself loose, and ran furiously 

over a mile into the village, with 

his straps and rigging hanging 

to him. They concluded now 

the horse could not be broken, 

and that he was practically 

worthless. 

Mr. Press brought the horse to Buffalo, and offered to 
sell him to me. I told him, if he would join my class, I 
would break the horse for him, as I wanted just such a one 
upon which to illustrate the effect of the treatment. 

" I do not care to join any horse-taming class," replied 
he. "I have been in a number of them, and can do as much 
with a horse as any man. I do not want any such instruc- 
tions, but will sell you the horse." 

" I do not want your horse," said I, " but if you will 
join the class and bring him in for me to experiment upon, 
I will guarantee not to injure him, and promise if I do not 
hitch him up and drive him perfectly gentle in twenty min- 
utes, to charge you nothing for instructions, and also to give 
you the best suit of clothes to be found in the city of Buf- 
falo." 

" I w^ill come on these conditions," said he, " yet I know 
no living man can drive that horse." 

He and his friends laughed in anticipation of the sport 
they were to have in seeing me defeated. They knew, as 



138 FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

they supposed, all about horse-taming, and felt sure this 
subject would cause me humiliating failure. When he was 
brought in, Mr. Press got upon the top seat, out of harm's 
way. At the same time he told the people that ten men 
could not hold the horse in shafts, and that he felt it his 
duty to tell them that they must look out for themselves. 
I told the people there was no danger at all, that the case 
was in fact a very simple one to manage. 

I subjected him quickly to the First and Second 
Methods, which made him submit to have anything brought 
against his quarters ; this was the first point to be gained. 
I then obtained control of the mouth by the Breaking Bit, 
when I hitched him up and drove him, without breeching, 
perfectly gentle and manageable, all of which was done 
within fifteen minutes. Next morning, I gave him another 
short lesson out of doors, testing him hard, hitching and 
unhitching him in the open street with entire success. The 
feat was regarded as marvelous. Mr. P. and others who 
knew the case, said they would not have behoved it possi- 
ble had they not seen it done. 

Though the horse appeared perfectly gentle, Mr. P. 
said he had no faith that he would stay broken, and that 
he would not ride behind him for any amount of money, 
and offered to sell him to me at my own price. I bought 
th« horse, and two weeks afterward, sold him in the city 
where he was afterward used, and proved perfectly gentle. 

I will explain here an interesting fact in connection 
with this case, to show the necessity of treating a horse 
where in the habit of resisting, and where it is desired to 
work him : Knowing I could make a great stir in Growanda 
by taking him back and exhibiting him there, and anticipat- 
ing that the horse, though under the most perfect control in- 
the city, would be likely when in the country to show some 
of his old nature, I arranged to guard against such results 



ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 139 

as much as I could by driving there in the night, as doubt- 
ful horses always drive better in the night than in the day 
time. I started about 9 o'clock, and as I had anticipated, 
upon reaching the country, he acted so badly, showing such 
intense fear of almost everything he saw, that I could not 
drive him with any safety. I was, in fact, compelled to 
get out and lead him back to the settled part of the city, 
when he at once drove as well as ever. I had broken and 
driven him in the noisiest and most densely traveled part 
of the city. There he was perfectly gentle ; but upon tak- 
ing him where he had not been controlled, the instinct of 
his old fear and resistance became so strong, that to pro- 
ceed would be at the risk of having him kick and resist 
control. If subjected to treatment here, his management 
would have been as easy and simple as in the city. But 
as I did not care to do this, on account of the difficulty of 
getting privacy, and which would also require doing the 
whole work over again, I concluded to give up the project 
of exhibiting him at Gowanda. My friends never knew 
the reason of my not showing him there as promised, and 
wiU learn it for the first time from this explanation. 

A very sensitive horse will always behave better in a 
noisy city than in the country. The rattle and noise on 
every side so confuses as to prevent him from concentrat- 
ing his purpose to resist, or from having his attention di- 
rected in any particular direction ; whereas in the country 
the whole attention is attracted to some special object or 
cause of notice, and excites correspondingly increased dis- 
turbance. This condition is specially referred to under 
various heads. 

Case II. 

This was an eight-year-old bay, owned in Brookville, 
Pa. He was of ordinary size, nervous temperament, good 



140 FEAK.— ITS EFFECTS. 

bead, strong, dense texture of body, and naturally of good 
disposition, but had been spoiled by being frightened into 
running away several times, the last time jumping over the 
toll-gate and leaving the wagon there. He was afraid of a 
wagon and could not even be hitched to one. The people 
did not question my ability to so control him that I could 
drive him, but would not believe that I could break him so 
that others could drive him. There was a general impres- 
sion that I either acted upon the horse's brain in some mys- 
terious way to control him, or that I gave medicine to do 
so. Some went so far as to say they would not believe it 
though they should see it done. By great effort, however, 
I was able to make quite a large class on the condition that 
I subdue this horse and drive him perfectly gentle before 
them. 

I subjected the case to First and Second Methods, and 
getting good control of the mouth, not only drove him to 
wagon down hill without breeching, but at the same time, 
to prove his perfect safety, had him driven by a boy eight 
years old, in the same manner. This short lesson proved 
sufi&cient to completely reform him. 

Case III. 

This was a nine-year-old bay horse, owned by Mr. 
Grates, of Garretsville, Ohio. He would run away in double 
or single harness, and defied every effort to break him. 
With great care he could be hitched up, but the moment 
a whip or the least thing excited him, he would kick and 
run away, regardless of all control. All sorts of rigging had 
been tried on him in vain. Although a very powerful, en- 
ergetic horse, I knew he would not prove a difficult case, 
and so stated, guaranteeing that I would hitch him up 
without breeching, drive him before a class, and make him 
submit to any excitement desired. 



ILLUSTEATIYE CASES. 141 

Upon trial he yielded readily to First and Second Meth- 
ods ; after which, with the Breaking Bit, I obtained entire 
control of the mouth, though he resisted for some time with 
great courage and perseverance. His mouth had become 
so hard that with any driving bit in use, he could run away 
with even six or eight men holding on to the reins. In 
about thirty minutes from the time I commenced, I drove 
him, perfectly gentle, in shafts without breeching. i 

I saw at once that I could make a great stir with him 
at Garrettsville, and so proposed going back there the third 
time. The owner consenting, I advertiised that two weeks 
afterward I would drive the horse without breeching, down 
hill through the main street of Garrettsville, while distant 
from him ten rods, and prove him one of the safest horses 
in the country. At the time appointed there was a large 
crowd assembled to witness the experiment, and I per- 
formed the feat without any reservation whatever, to the 
wonder and surprise of all present, enabling me to make 
the largest class I had yet made there. 

It is proper to explain that though the horse had stood 
idle for two weeks, upon trial I did not find it necessary to 
repeat the treatment, and did no more than to hitch him 
up under canvas, and rush him out into the street. The 
owner was still afraid he could not manage the horse safely, 
so he wished me to handle him once more. This I did in 
a field outside of the town, where I subjected him to the most 
exacting tests. Years afterward, he informed me that he 
sold the horse to a gentleman in Pittsburg, who used him 
for a family horse, proving him one of the gentlest and saf- 
est in the city. 

Case IV. 

This was a twelve-year-old sorrel horse, owned by Dr. 
Keegan, of Cleveland, Ohio. While hitched in the street, 
and covered with a blanket, he was frightened by the wind 



■% 



142 FEAB.— ITS EFFECTS. 

suddenly lifting and throwing the blanket under his body. 
It was afterward an object of such terror to him that he 
did not have a blanket over him again for seven years. 
He would have killed any man venturing near him with 
one in his hand. When I exhibited one before him, at a 
distance of twenty feet, he plunged away in the most des- 
perate manner ; and after being almost completely disabled, 
he would squeal, strike, and kick at a blanket held at a dis- 
tance of ten or twelve feet, his eyes bloodshot with terror. 
The point was to appeal to the understanding without seri- 
ously shocking the nervous system. 

I subjected him to First and Second Methods, showing 
him a part of the blanket, first at a distance of about twelve 
or fifteen feet, gradually coming nearer as I felt safe in so 
doing. Even after a treatment that would have compelled 
the complete submission of any ordinary horse, he was so 
fierce and desperate that I could not approach near enough 
with the blanket to make him smell or touch it, without 
danger of being killed. I hung it upon a pole, and when 
able finally to bring it against his nose, he grabbed it in his 
mouth four or five times with the ferocity of a bulldog, but 
biting less and less each time, until he seemed to caro noth- 
ing about it, when he submitted to having it thrown over 
or around him, as desired, entirely regardless of it ; and 
the experiment was pronounced a remarkable success. 

Case V. 
This was a bay pony, nine years old, owned by a phy- 
sician at Greencastle, Pa. This horse was afraid of a buf- 
falo-robe. I had a large class of leading citizens, and at 
the close of the instructions the pony was brought in. Al- 
though distant from him more than thirty feet, upon ex- 
posing a part of the robe to his view, his terror became so 
great that in his effort to get away, he broke out of the 



ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 143 

barn. When brought back, I subjected him for thirty min- 
utes to the Second Method, without making any apparent 
progress in overcoming his fear. He continued making the 
most desperate resistance by striking and kicking at the 
robe whenever it was exposed to his view. The owner 
now objected to further treatment, claiming he could not 
be broken, which was seconded by the class. This was 
extremely annoying. The usual experiments and instruc- 
tions had been gone through with, the class entirely satis- 
fied, and at the time this horse was brought in, were en- 
gaged in paying their fees. As soon as they saw him re- 
sist, they stopped paying to await results of the experi- 
ment, which, as explained, was pronounced a failure, and 
a sufficient excuse for them not to pay me. It was not 
alone this class at stake, but a failure would be magnified 
to such an extent as to destroy confidence in my efforts 
in the surrounding towns. 

I asked, "What do you value your horse at?" 
He replied, "One hundred and fifty dollars." 
"Very well," said I, and put up the amount, which he 
understood he was at liberty to take if the experiment re- 
sulted in the least injury to the horse. I then said to the 
class: "I want no talk or criticism from you. I insist 
upon your keeping still and in your places until the result 
of the experiment is determined. You say I will fail. We 
will see about that. It will cost you nothing if I do." 

As I brought the robe near the horse, he was so des- 
perately afraid of it that he would squeal, kick, and fight 
with the greatest fury. But my blood was up, and there 
was nothing for it but at any hazard to see the end. It 
was a severe struggle ; but I was determined to push him 
now, regardless of consequences, to such a limit of help- 
lessness as would enable me to bring the robe close to his 
nose. When I did so, he grabbed and ground it between 



14.4 FEAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 

his teeth, let go, grabbed and bit it again, and so repeated, 
five times in succession, when his whole nature seemed to 
suddenly change, and he submitted to it without the least 
resistance. I now rubbed it gently over his head and 
body, then untied him and repeated the rubbing, followed 
by throwing it upon him gently. In a few moments I 
could stand and throw it upon him without his caring for 
it. AU were now delighted with the result. Every man 
paid his fee cheerfully. The pony was led home by his 
owner, who carried a robe over his shoulder dangling be- 
fore the horse's head, while another was thrown over the 
horse's head and neck, he being as indifferent to it as if he 
had never been frightened by such an object. All present 
voted, "I was a good fellow." 

Case VI. 

This was a five-year-old colt of a cold-blooded, sullen 
nature, owned by Mr. J. C. Collins, proprietor of the trott- 
ing track in Toledo, Ohio. Though a thoroughly practical 
horseman, he could do nothing with this horse. The only 
way he could drive him was by hitching him between two 
heavier horses, and tying him back to them by the head. 

This gentleman was persuaded to join the class, as he 
alterward stated to the writer, "with the expectation of 
being fooled." After witnessing the experiments on a num- 
ber of very bad horses, he came forward, saying, " he had 
a horse that he would like to see me drive, and would 
bring him in next day ; that it was the only horse he ever 
had he was wiUing to take off his hat to, and say he could 
not break ; that if I could break and drive him in the time 
claimed, he would be convinced I could break any horse in 
the world." 

I found the horse a strong, determined, impulsive fel- 



ILLUSTKATIVE CASES. 145 

low, very mucli afraid of anything being brought around 
or near him, especially of being touched around the quar- 
ters or flanks. Subjecting to First and Second Methods 
compelled his complete submission. His resistance to the 
Breaking Bit was very determined ; but, in time, he sub- 
mitted to it unconditionally, requiring in all about forty 
minutes. The lesson was in part repeated next day and he 
was driven without breeching through the main street of 
the city. 

I append Mr. Collins's acknowledgement published at 
the time : — 

"Great Feat — The Woest Ritnawat Horse in Toledo. 

" I certify that a five-year old bay horse owned by me was so vicious and 
unmanageable that he could not be driven single or double without running 
away. I tried to drive him with a strong, gentle horse, and he would run 
away in defiance of all I could do, carrying the other herse with him. The 
only way we could hold him or drive him in harness was by hitching him be- 
tween two horses, and attaching a strap from his bit to the hame rings of the 
horses on either side. It was impossible to hold this horse in any other way. 
Professor Magner subjected him to treatment in my presence, and drove him 
in the street, yesterday, without breeching, to wagon, so perfectly gentle and 
manageable that the slightest command, or pull on the reins, would cause 
him to stop, allowing the wagon to strike his heels, etc. I have driven him 
myself since, single and double, ^nd find him perfectly gentle and manage- 
able. I believe a knowledge of Prof. Magner's treatment of the greatest 
value to owners of horses, and should be learned by all who are wise to their 
own interests. His system will enable any man to make the most vicious 
horses gentle with a reasonable effort, ai, I it is undoubtedly the best in the 
world. I would not take fSOO for what I ^ earned from him. 

"J. P. COLLINS, 
"Proprietor of Track, Toledo, Ohio." 

Case YII/ 

This was a bay horse owned by a butcher in Rochester, 
N. Y. A professional horse tamer who had been quite suc- 
cessful in the West was engaged there in business. Hap- 
pening in the city, I visited him, and during my Adsit, the 
horse was led in to be experimented upon before the class. 
When shown a robe, he exhibited the most intense fear of 
it. After a treatment of nearly two hours the horse was 
in reality worse than before, and the experiment was an 

10 



U6 FEAIl.— ITS EFFECTS. 

acknowledged failure. The man said, "I haven't time to 
break so bad a horse in one lesson, but I will give him 
another to-morrow, when I will show you the effect of the 
treatment upon him. 

When the class had gone and he was left alone, he took 
the horse in hand and worked with him until twelve o'clock 
that night. Upon my return next morning, about ten 
o'clock, I found an assistant driving around with a buffalo- 
robe fastened upon the horse's back. Every few mo- 
ments the horse would snort and kick at the parts of the 
robe hanging over his hips, and to all appearances as much 
afraid of it as the night before. As a final resort, they 
tried this method of familiarizing him with it. 

Knowing the fear of the robe could not be overcome by 
the treatment used, and not willing to see the man de- 
feated, I felt compelled, as an act of friendship, to help 
him out of the scrape. Not wishing to be identified in any 
way with the matter, I exacted a pledge of secrecy from 
the man driving him ; after which I subjected the horse 
quickly to Second Method, and in less than ten minutes he 
was made perfectly gentle. The robe was pulled under 
the body, between the hind legs, and thrown upon him 
from a distance of over ten feet without his showing the 
least fear of it. He performed equally well the same even- 
ing before the class, proving perfectly gentle. The result 
was regarded as a proof of the great success of the treat- 
ment. 

The treatment used upon him was a modified form of 
First Method. It was tried upon him persistently, as 
stated, for nearly two hours, and while down, the robe put 
upon him ; but when allowed to get upon his feet, and the 
robe shown him, his resistance and fear of it were as great 
as before. Failing in this, the only resource left was the 
palliative treatment, which had no effect whatever upon 



ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. 



147 



him. Pushing sharply with Second Method, made him for 
the moment sufficiently helpless to permit the robe to be 
put upon him, and when in the position of resistance, (on 
his feet) when he seemed to realize its harmless character 
he submitted unconditionally, and thereafter became en- 
tirely indifferent to it. The importance of this treatment 
is shown by the fact that though the lesson was not re- 
peated, after standing almost an entire day, he proved en- 
tirely gentle. 

Case VIII. 

This was a nine-year old bay pony, owned by Mr. 
Smawley, a livery 
keeper in Petrol- 
eum Centre, Pa. 
This pony was so 
wild and reckless 
that he was in 
that region of 
country known 
by the name of 
Wild Pete. Ev- 
ery effort to break 
him had failed. 
It us.ually re- Fig. iis.-wnd Pete. 

quired two men to hold him while being groomed. He 
could be ridden, but it was utterly impossible to do any- 
thing with him in harness. Once when a harness was put 
on him, he became so frightened and reckless that he jumped 
and got away, and when found, all the harness excepting 
the collar had been torn or shaken off. His insane fear 
was so great that he was really wicked in his resistance. 

When I visited the place in 1869, I was confronted 
with this horse. All said, "Let us see you drive Wild 




i48 



FEAR— ITS EFFECT^. 



Pete," regarding it as a good joke that they had a horse 
that could " beat the horse-tamer." 

Upon examination, I found him a small, closely-knit 
fellow, possessing great action and power of endurance.. 
His forehead was broad, and the head in all respects well 
formed. To test him, I put on the War Bridle, tied up his 
near fore-foot, and while holding him, with the lash of a 
straight buggy whip barely touched his quarters. This 
frightened him so intensely that he sprang over six feet 




Fig. 119. — Wild Pete in the act of running away. 

into the air, kicked violently, pulled away from me, and 
although on three legs, repeated this jumping and kicking 
for over half a mile. 

I stated to the people that I could not break such a 
horse in a barn, but would form a class, and on the follow- 
ing day I would drive him before them without breeching, 
entirely gentle and fearless, and that the money for the in- 
structions might be deposited in the bank, to be delivered 
to me on fulfillment of this condition. As this was one of 
the most interesting and marked cases I had found in all 
my experience, and as it represents a large class of nerv- 
ous, unmanageable colts, I will include the full details of 
the treatment used : — 



ILLUSTEATIVB CASES. 



149 



I first arranged with the owner to have him taken to 
the Titusville trotting park, eight miles distant, and there I 
subjected him carefully to Second Method, which was ex- 
actly adapted to his temperament. I touched his quarters 
very lightly at first, which he resisted by kicking, snorting, 
and jumping in the most desperate manner. But I per- 
sisted in the effort, repeatedly reversing both ways until 
he was compelled to submit to it, but not sufficiently to 




hold gentle 



Fig. 120. — Pole Eig referred to below. 

This so toned him down that I was then able 
to subject him without difficulty to First Method, which, as 
he resisted with great courage, was consequently very ef- 
fective in his case, but not by any means sufficient to 
make him submit to be harnessed or put in shafts. Con- 
sequently, I subjected him again to Second Method, and 
now succeeded in making him entirely gentle to submit to 
having a pole brought against his flanks, etc. 

The next step was to drive him, which I knew I could 
not safely do. To accomplish this, I improvised the pole 
rig for shafts. (See cut.) As soon as he found himself be- 
tween the poles and allowed to move, he seemed for a few 



150 



FBAE.— ITS EFFECTS. 



moments to exert all the energy of despair in trying to get 
away. But expecting this, I was prepared to meet it and 
hold him, though his resistance at this stage was very de- 
termined. 

This simple rig, though a chance outgrowth of inciden- 
tal necessity, proved not only just the thing for the emer- 
gency, but a valuable acquisition for the management of 
colts and horses generally of this character. Turning right 
or left, the poles come against the legs ; in backing, the 




Fig. 131. — Wild Pete, as he appeared next day after being subdued. 

ends stick into the ground, bringing the cross-piece firmly 
against the quarters. There is no danger of their breaking, 
and by their use the quarters can be accustomed to being 
touched or run against by the shafts in driving. Submit- 
ting to this he was practically broken, and at once harnessed 
before a wagon with breeching straps loose, and drove back 
to the American House, much of the way with the cross- 
piece striking his quarters, proving him perfectly gentle. 
That evening I drove him to Petroleum Centre, and the 
next day as promised, exhibited him in harness, proving 
him a model of docility. 

An incident peculiar to this case is here worthy of men- 



ILLUSTKATIVB CASES. 151 

tion : Upon visiting this place about three years afterward, 
Mr. Smalley informed me that the horse had been used as a 
family carriage horse and was one of the safest in that part 
of the country, but that it was impossible to shoe him with 
the halter on, while with the bridle on he was perfectly 
gentle to have his feet handled. While treating him, had 
I taken up his feet after the harness was removed, and ac- 
customed them to being handled and pounded upon for a 
few moments, he would have been just as gentle while be- 
ing shod with the halter on as with the bridle. As it was, 
he could associate, submission only in the manner the treat- 
ment was used, and this carried it no farther than driving 
with the control of the bit, and hence the docility to allow 
the feet to be handled while it was on. 




CHAPTER IV. 



KICKING. 

Kicking is in all cases the result of ignorance or -bad man- 
agement. As explained in Colt Training and Fear, mak- 
ing one side of the body gentle and submissive to contact, 
will give no assurance in respect to the opposite side. Now 




Fig. 133.— The effect of bad treatment. 

when a colt or horse is broken as ordinarily done, and goes 
off all right when put in harness, it is taken for granted 
that he is as gentle and safe as can be expected ; but, if 
by carelessness or accident the rein is caught under the 
tail, or the cross-piece or whiffletree should come suddenly 
against the quarters, those parts being practically unbroken, 
or not accustomed to such contact, the horse is liable to be 
so excited and frightened as to kick ; and once started in 
this habit there is increased inclination to do so until con- 
firmed in it. Now all this could be prevented without the 

(153) 



GENEEAL EEMAKKS. 



153 



least difficulty by fifteen or twenty minutes' treatment, 
which would make the horse entirely insensible to such 
causes of contact. It is a habit also that merges into so 
many other faults that destroy the value of the horse and 
render him unsafe for use, that I consider it advisable to 
make this chapter as full in the details of management as space 
Avill permit. There is no reason to suppose that a horse is 
naturally bad and unmanageable because he kicks. The 
point is to make him sufficiently gentle to safely bear, with- 
out kicking, the restraint and excitement necessary in har- 




KEIiLLV. EHO 



Fig. 133. — Treatment that only confirms the habit. 

ness. Or when the habit is once formed to so combat it 
that all tendency to repeat it is overcome. 

In the chapter on Colt Training I have given details of 
the treatment to be pursued for the management of excit- 
able colts, or those that kick. It also includes directions 
for overcoming fear of the wagon, and other causes of ex- 
citement, until proved gentle to control, and the treatment 
as given there for such cases should be studied in connec- 
tion with this. 

In the chapter on Teaching Tricks, which can also be re- 
ferred to, I have explained that the principle of breaking 
up and overcoming a habit is exactly the reverse of that 
of teaching a trick or habit. If, for example, in teaching a 



154 



KICKING. 



horse to kick up, tie were so gentle and fearless that he 
could not by any ordinary means be made to do so, it 
would be necessary to use such means as would excite and 
irritate him to kick, when he could 
be easily confirmed in the habit. On 
the same principle, if the horse is a 
very determined kicker, then an ef- 
fort should be made to overcome the 
sensibility which is the cause of the 
kicking, until there is no inclination 
to repeat it. This can easily be done 
by either one, or by a combination, 
of the Methods of Subjection given. 
To illustrate : I had a pony that I 
wished to teach to throw boys. As 
a preliminary to teaching him this trick, it was necessary 
to make him kick up promptly at command. The simplest 
way of teaching this trick is to prick lightly on the rump 
with a pin, and when the hind parts are thrown up a little, 
caress, and repeat until simply 
touching the part causes the horse 




Fig. 134,— a little doubtful. 




Fig. 125. 



Points of good character. 



Fig. 136. 



to kick up. But this pony was so gentle that sticking 
the pin into his rump would not excite the least motion 
toward kicking. The only alternative now was to make 
the parts sufficiently sensitive to start him in the trick. 



GBNEKAL EEMAEKS. 



155 




Fig. 127. — Docile character. 



I drove a few tacks into a shingle, filed the ends sharp, 
and of equal length, and hacked them into the skin a little 
to cause irritation. Next day on touching his rump with 
a pin, he kicked readily. A few repetitions made him so 
sensitive that even the lightest 
touch on the part with the 
finger, or even a motion to- 
ward the hip, would make him 
kick as high as I wished, which 
he would do ever afterward. 
This is teaching to. kick. 

Now if a horse is violently 
excited by any cause, such as 
by catching the rein under the 
tail, the breeching breaking or 
being too long, so as to allow the cross-piece or shafts to 
come against the quarters, etc., it would excite kicking, 

and the habit is taught 
precisely as if by inten- 
tion. It is seen that af- 
ter starting the horse in 
kicking, at each repe- 
tition of being touched 
or hurt he will kick the 
harder. So in learning 
by chance to kick in har- 
ness, the greater the ex- 
citement and fear pro- 
duced and the oftener its 
repetition, the more 
reckless and determined 
will the habit become. Now any cause that excites and 
irritates this kicking without being able to control or stop 
it, will only intensify and confirm it. Consequently, when 




Fig. 128.— Good eye. 



156 



KICKmG. 




a horse by chance is made to kick, and in trying to break 
up the habit is excited and badly managed, each repetition 
of treatment, if unsuccessful in overcoming the habit, only 
aggravates and tends to confirm it. 

The key of success is in being able to combat the habit 

directly until all inclination 
to resist is overcome. But 
the method of doing this 
must in a great measure be 
governed by the peculiar- 
ity of disposition, and the 
intensity with v^^hich the 
habit is fixed. If the nerv- 
ous system is so greatly 
deranged and v^eakened 
that kicking is in a great 
measure involuntary, and 
this cannot be overcome by 
subjective treatment, then such means must be used as will 
disable and restrain the kicking in harness until the inclin- 
ation is fully overcome. So far as the act of kicking is con- 
cerned, it is about the same in all cases ; but the energy 
of resistance and the persistence of the habit depend upon 
the sensibility, pluck, and endurance of the horse, and the 
degree to which the nervous system has been shaken or 
broken down by fear or abuse. A very little lack of good 
judgment here may sometimes cause a great deal of trouble 
and needless cruelty, and make the horse's subjection far 
more difficult. I pay particular attention to this point, and 
do not make a move until sure of the proper course. I 
have learned by long experience to take no false step if 
avoidable, knowing what trouble may result therefrom. 

For instance : Is the horse a wild, reckless runaway, or 
simply one that, save the habit of kicking, is otherwise 



Fig. 129. — Sensitive. Will not bear abuse. 



GBNEEAL EEMAEKS. 



157 



gentle ? Is he cold-blooded and persistent, throwing all his 
energy into kicking at all hazards ? If the first, is the 
habit the result of fear, and to what degree is the nervous 
system weakened, or is the case one of a really bad dispo- 
sition ? If the second class, what is the undercurrent of 
his nature ? Will he bear pushing while under excitement, 
or is he one that to warm him up is to excite only to more 
intense resistance ? 

If he is very sensitive, high strung, kicking mainly from 
fear, the treatment must be of a char- 
acter not to heat the blood, excite, 
or give much freedom, when all 





r -. 

Fig. 130. — Ideal of sullen, treacherous nature. 

that wiU be necessary to do wiU be to accustom him to the 
noise or rattle of the wagon, or bearing contact until fear- 
less of it. If a headstrong, runaway kicker, especially one 
that kicks recklessly when touched, a simple course of sub- 
jection that will force his submission to restraint, will usu- 
ally be all that is necessary ; when by repeating the les- 
son in part once or twice the habit can be easily overcome. 
If a cold-blooded, sulky kicker, or one that kicks only 
in harness, the habit must be combated directly until un- 
der control. The cold but courageous, switching kicker, 
kicking by speUs or when excited, will usually submit most 
readily to simple restraint. To excite or irritate cases of 



158 



KtCitiKG. 



this character by general coercive methods, unless the after 
treatment is carried out with great care and judgment, will 
only do harm by irritating the nervous system to a degree 
that would only intensify the habit. 

A good idea of these differences in disposition and char- 
acter can be seen by the large variety of illustrations of 
heads in this and other chapters. 

For inexperienced persons, the Breaking Rig, if avail- 
able, would make the control of all ordinary cases simple 
and easy. But presuming it is not available, I will give 





Fig. 131. — Ideal expression of the determined, fighting kicker. 

my regular methods of management. As I have before ex- 
plained, the principle of breaking a horse of a habit is the 
reverse of teaching it, and I have also reminded in the chap- 
ters before referred to (Colt Training and Fear), that mak- 
ing one part of the body gentle does not give assurance of 
making other parts so. The same in breaking a horse to 
drive in harness, making him gentle out of harness or in a 
position in which he is not accustomed to work, cannot be 
regarded as assurance of safety when hitched before a 
wagon. The subjection must be progressive until this end 
is attained. 

Now to break a horse of kicking, the first point is to 



GTBNEEAL EEMAEKS. 



159 



make a reliable foundation by rendering him thoroughly 
gentle out of harness. In doing this, it will greatly facili- 
tate success to adapt the treatment to the case as nearly 
as possible. I have learned, as one of the hard lessons of 
my experience, that if I let the horse resist me after once 
forcing his submission, it will only make him worse than 
he was before. It gives him increased courage and con- 
fidence afterward to fight back, and thus makes his char- 
acter doubtful and treach- 
erous. This taught me 
when I had a bad case to 
make every step sure; 




Fig. 132.— Points showing the expression of confirmed kickers. 

from each step gained, to make the next until I came to 
driving, which I made so thorough that I felt sure of mak- 
ing the horse reliable. 

Suppose we have a nervous, kicking colt or horse, of a 
naturally good disposition. Perhaps putting on the War 
Bridle and pulling him right and left a few times, just 
enough to disconcert a little, will make him submit in a few 
minutes to have a pole brought against the quarters, hips, 
and flanks. Simply repeat until the horse will submit to 
be poled in any manner with the head free. If the horse 
is strong and shows much fear of being touched around the 



160 



KICKING^. 



quarters, kicking hard, and trying to get away, this treat- 
ment will not be sufficient. It is necessary, therefore, to 
resort to means by which he can be controlled quickly and 
easily. The Second Method would be the simplest way of 
doing it, turning him right and left sharply, but not to the 
point of falling, at the same time bringing the pole against 
the quarters as he passes around, until he will submit to it 
without fear while standing still. 

The point of his submitting unconditionally to be 




Fie. 133. — A good expression of the sullen kicker. 

touched all around the tail, quarters, and flanks, should at 
this stage be made very thorough. Then, when untied, re- 
peat this poling; or, if necessary, by the control of the 
War Bridle repeat the poling until the horse will stand 
quietly while being poled in any manner with the head 
free. (See cut 41.) If the horse is of decided viciousness and 
great endurance, the treatment must be made more posi- 
tive. For such, this method may not be sufficient. When 
this is anticipated, follow with either or both the other 
methods; and, if necessary, repeat the Second Method. 
If I have a good place and the horse will bear the excite- 
ment, I usually foUow with the First Method, throwing 



GENERAL REMARKS. 



161 



rapidly eight or ten times, as fast as the horse will get up ; 
then stand behind him and excite him to get up, and roll 
him back until he will not try to get up. This is the limit 
of this treatment, and works well when the horse will get 
up with energy ; but is almost inert when there is not much 
resistance to it. 

All that is necessary when the horse gets up and is 




Fig. 134.— Showing the impulsive, dangerous character of bad kickers 
when fii'st brought for treatment. 

standing on three legs, is to bring the pole against the quar- 
ters. If there is submission to it, simply repeat until he 
will bear the poling in any manner with his head and legs 
free. But if there is still resistance, follow with the Third 
Method, and repeat. While pressure is on, bring the pole 
against the quarters industriously. Usually, at first, the 
horse will kick hard when touched ; but it is rarely there 

11 



16^ 



KICKING. 



will not be submission in a few minutes. This point made, 
gradually remove the pressure, and while doing so, keep 
rubbing and bringing the pole against the quarters and 
flanks until there is unconditional submission. 

Sometimes young horses of this character are very bad. 
The greatest average of the worst horses I have ever found 
have been iron-gray, sorrel, or black, though I have occa- 
sionally found bays extremely bad. But the case must be 
very bad that will not yield readily to the Second and 




Fig. 135. —As some very bad kickers will act when touched. 

Third Methods. The First in many cases will be found 
equally effective. A great deal depends upon how the 
treatment is applied. A man may use either or all the 
methods, supposing he has done all that it is possible to do, 
and fail in subduing the horse, yet I may use the same 
treatment immediately afterward and succeed without dif- 
ficulty, the only difference being in the proper application 
of the treatment. (These conditions will be found explained 
in connection with the description of each method in the 
first chapter.) When done properly, it should seldom re- 
quire more than thirty or forty minutes to subdue even 
very bad cases. 



GENEEAL EEMAEKS. 



163 



The point accomplished of making the horse gentle in 
one position to be handled and poled, it must be carried to 
driving in harness, which is the real point to be attained ; 
for however gentle the horse may be at this stage, he may 
stin resist with great recklessness when driven to wagon. 
In many cases, if thoroughly subdued, he may be safely 
put to a wagon and driven ; but if a,t aU doubtful this should 




Fig. 136. — As the desperate kicker sometimes resists when 
subjected to First Method. 

not be attempted, as in the event of kicking successfully a 
great point is lost. To break a horse reliably of kicking, 
means that there will be no inclination to kick in any posi- 
tion, no matter how irritated. 

Now put on the harness, tie up the tugs and breeching 
straps, and run the reins through the shaft-bearers. The 
point in driving is to disconcert and control the horse suffi- 
ciently by the power of the bit, so that he can be controlled 
and driven by the restraint of the reins. The most power- 



164 . KICKING. 

ful and simple means of controlling the mouth is by the 
Patent Bridleo If this is not available, the " W " or Breaking 
Bit should be used. The chief value of this bit depends 
upon the way it is used. 

The advantage of the Patent Bridle is that it gives great 
power without requiring any special practice. Get directly 
behind the horse ; if he is sensitive, it is better before 
starting to have an assistant bring a pole over the back and 




Fig. 137, — As the bad kicker will usually resist when 
touched while turning. 

against the quarters on both sides and flanks until he takes 
no notice of it. Now start the horse gently, and, having 
driven a few steps, bring the pole against the quarters 
lightly at first, then repeat, until it can be brought with 
considerable force against the legs and quarters without 
exciting fear. If the horse is very sensitive, give an ap- 
ple, stroke the head and nose, and speak kindly. No mat- 
ter how severe the previous treatment, when submissive, 
kindness will be very important in quieting the nervous 
system. In addition, it tells the horse by his way of rea- 
soning that the punishment is for kicking. Now drive right 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 



165 



and left, pulling the rein firmly against the outside quar- 
ter, and continue until the horse drives fast or slow as re- 
quired. If disposed to resist when touched, and kicks, 
give a quick, sharp pull on the reins in order to pull the 
head up and back, which would disable and prevent carry- 
ing out his purpose. This is usually not difficult. But 
sometimes the horse will kick violently when this is done ; 
if he does, and there is good control of the mouth, set him 




Fig. 138. — As extremely bad kickers resist when touched 
while pressure is on. 

back hard against a rail or pole so arranged that it will 
strike the quarters on a level with the cross-piece of shafts, 
repeating until there is entire submission. (See Colt Train- 
ing.) The point of doing this is to bring the quarters al- 
most up to the pole, and then with a sharp, quick pull, 
force him back against it. 

Should the horse resist the bit and appear plucky, he 
will try to pull far enough away to kick against the rail, 
which must not be permitted. But if there is sufficient 
control of the mouth, he can be held against it helplessly, 



166 KICKING. 

when after a few ineffectual efforts he will submit. Repeat 
this surging back against the rail until there is no resist- 
ance, then drive as before, being careful that all sensibility 
around the quarters is overcome before stopping. 

Sometimes it is advisable to put on the foot-strap, and, 
at the commencement of driving when there is an effort to 
touch the quarters, pull the foot from under, which disables 
the horse so that he cannot kick. In my practice I rarely 



Fig. 139. — Test often given by the writer in proving the horse's 
docility after being subdued. 

use this means. Sometimes it works well in the manage- 
ment of green, impulsive colts, and it will be found a good 
auxiliary means of control, but seldom necessary in the 
management of kickers. 

If it is desired to be especially thorough and careful, 
hitch and drive to poles as described in Colt Training. 
Drive to the right and left, and back against the cross- 
piece. This will accustori the horse in moving to bear the 
pressure of the shafts against the quarters and flanks, — a 
very important point which cannot be done with regular 
shafts. 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 



167 



No matter how well the horse drives to poles, it is no 
assurance that he will be reliable before a wagon. The in- 
creased noise and rattle of the wagon will be an additional 
cause of excitement to which he must be accustomed. Be- 
fore hitching, repeat the touching around the quarters and 
flanks with a pole. If he has been much frightened at the 
wagon, let him feel and smell of it, at the same time rattle 
it until he is accustomed to the noise, and encourage him 
by giving apples, etc. ; then put in shafts. Pull the wagon 




Fig. 140. — As the liorse usually drives in harness after being subdued. 

forward at first lightly against the quarters, gradually re- 
peating until it can be brought against the parts quite hard. 
Now by starting him a little and pulling the wagon behind 
in this way, it can be ascertained what he~ will bear. 

Attach him to the wagon without buckling the breech- 
ing-straps, get in, let him go slowly a few steps, then pull 
him back sharply, saying, " Whoa ! " which will bring the 
wagon as before against the quarters. Repeat, driving him 
faster and faster, until he can be put at a moderate trot, 
and then increase to a run. In this way he becomes 
thoroughly reconciled to the noise and excitement of a 
wagon, as well as to the contact with the shafts. Of course 



168 



KICKING. 



when it is desired to drive in the regular manner, the 
breeching-straps must be buckled. 

A very important point, and one that should not be neg- 
lected, is, that when the horse behaves well, he should be 
encouraged bj giving apples, talking to kindly, etc. A 
great deal also depends upon the temperament of the man. 
Some men, whatever their experience with horses, seem to 
be almost poison to them. They think that all that is 
necessary is to jerk a horse around, or subject him to treat- 




FiG. 141. — A test to which the horse should be subjected 
before being subdued. 

ment as if but a mere machine ; then if the horse acts badly 
or resists, they attribute the entire trouble to the bad char- 
acter of the horse, instead of their own lack of skill and 
care. If at any point in driving the horse he should re- 
sist control and kick hard, he must be subjected again to 
the regular subjective course to the point of unconditional 
submission. 

It was a matter of almost daily occurrence while travel- 
ing, to have young horses of this character brought me to 
experiment upon before my classes. Among them I would 



DETAILS OF TEEATMEISTT. 



1G9 




Fig. 14:2.- — One of the tests usually given by the writer before the class, 
proving the horse's entire submission in harness. 



170 



KICKING. 




Fig. 143. — No life or action. 



frequently find mares and colts which showed such terror 
when brought near a wagon as to jump and kick so desper- 
ately that the combined 
strength of several men 
could not bring them near, 
or hold them in shafts. The 
owner would usually say: 
" I would like to see you 
hitch up and drive my 
horse, but you must take 
your own chances. If you 
let anything strike his heels 
I'll warrant he'll kick and 
run away." And, " They 
never had a horse before 
this one that they could not 
break." Now it was rare that I was unable to drive such 
horses by the treatment explained, in from fifteen to thirty 
minutes. Such suc- 
cess, in connection 
with the apparent 
ease with which it 
was done, would al- 
ways be a cause of 
the greatest surprise 
and satisfaction. 



Runaway Kickers. 



The treatment for 
runaway kickers is 
practically the same 
as for horses of the previous habits, the difference being 
simply in training the mouth, which must be made suffi- 




FiG. 144. — Sensibility and action. 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 



171 



ciently thorough to compel unconditional submission to 
the restraint of the bit. (For full details see "Running 
Away.") 

Confirmed Kickers. 

Confirmed kickers are usually exceptionally bad cases, 
and may be classed under three heads, as follows : Nervous, 
Excitable Kickers, 
Sulky Kickers, and 
Switching Kickers. 
Some of the very worst 
horses of this kind I 
have ever broken, and 
which caused me the 
most trouble, were cases 
which, at first, did not 
seem very bad, but 
grew worse as they 
warmed up. Some will 
show the most wonder- 
ful pluck, striving to kick in defiance of all that can be done, 
and require not only the most careful but thorough course 
of treatment to be broken. While others, though kicking 
with extreme viciousness, and showing a great deal of ex- 
citement, may become entirely gentle by a short lesson of 
subjective treatment. So that the act of kicking must not 
alone influence the treatment so much as the peculiarity of 
disposition. 

If the horse is large boned, with strong, dense texture 
of body, not inclined to put on flesh, gray or sorrel, eyes 
large, rather dark, showing much white, and with a sort of 
sullen expression, no matter what the character of the kick- 
ing, he will usually prove a hard fighter. Horses of this 
character usually will not bear any mistakes or fooling with, 




Fig. 145. 



-Norman Horse. Naturally gentle. 



172 



KICKING. 




Fig. 146.— Sullen, treacherous nature. 



They must be taken in hand with great care and thorough- 
ness. Sometimes a very nervous, excitable horse will not 
bear the Second Method, becoming warmed up too quickly. 

In such a case, the 
First and Third Meth- 
ods must be depended 
upon. Usually the 
Third will be all that 
is required. If so, the 
pressure should be all 
that the horse will 
bear, and when suc- 
cessful there will be 
entire submission, the 
eye softened in expres- 
sion, and the -whole system, as it were, relaxed, the horse 
showing no fear of having the pole brought against the 
quarters. In a general way I would advise treatment about 
as follows: If 
there is not en- 
tire docility after 
using the Third 
Method, use the 
First to the ex- 
tent the case will 
bear. Much de- 
pends upon how 
this is done, and 
how the horse 
submits. If he 
is rangy, quick, 
and active, it may be necessary to be particularly careful to 
avoid hard, stony ground. Select a ploughed field free from 
stones, or where the sod is very soft. Throw the horse 




Fig. 147. — The best type of intelligent, 
courageous nature. 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 



173 




Fig. 148. — A noted vicious kiclier. 



quickly, and as often as he will get up ; then reverse the 
rig and throw him on the opposite side, and repeat. Now 
see what the result will be by poling and handling around 
the quarters ; but few 
horses will resist it. 
If there is any incli- 
nation to kick after- 
ward, the next alter- 
native should be the 
Second Method. But 
I repeat : As much 
depends upon- the 
way this is done as 
upon the method it- 
self. The point is to 
throw the horse off 

his balance with sufficient force, and often enough to bear 
being poled at pleasure around the quarters and flanks, — a 
task not at all difficult to perform. If the horse has a good 
mouth, the after treatment will be simple and easy. The 
most difficult horses of this character to break are those 
with mouths so tender that they will not go against the 
bit, or will submit to it too easily. Presuming there is a 
good stiff mouth, (for nearly all these cases are of this char- 
acter), put on the harness with Patent Bridle or Breaking 
Bit, and make the after treatment as before explained, be- 
ing careful to be thorough, taking no chances that can be 
avoided until able to drive to wagon perfectly docile. 

Sulky Kickers. 

It^has been explained in the first chapter that horses 
represent the different characteristics of the domestic ani- 
mals. The most marked and annoying is the sullen or sulky 
nature represented by the bear, hog, or buUdog. As kick- 



174 



KICKING. 




Fig. 149. — A vicious horse before 
subjection. 



ers, they are very persistent and difficult to break, if not 
managed just right. Yet when treated properly they are 
not at all difficult to break of the habit. One of their pe- 
culiarities is that when broken they act as indifferent, and 

gentle to control, as though, they 
had never had the habit. 

When a horse is excitable and 
nervous, the treatment must be 
such as not to increase the ex- 
citement; while in managing 
cool, sulky fighters, it must be 
quick and aggressive. Some- 
times the First Method will not 
work at all ; it may, however, be 
tried, and if the horse can be 
made to get up with energy, make all the impression you 
can with it. Now follow quickly with Second Method. If 
you let the horse go his own way, touching him around the 
quarters, etc., he will only warm up into increased resist- 
ance. Motion with a pole toward 
the nose ; if this does not cause him 
to move sufficiently quick, then 
touch him with the whip sharply, 
which, in addition to motioning to- 
ward the head, should push him as 
rapidly as desired. Reverse quickly 
and force as before up to the point 
of falling. Repeat in this way a few 
times, keeping him as nearly help- 
less and confused as possible, in 
the meantime poling as before ex- 
plained. In extremely bad cases, if the treatment las not 
been carried far enough he will be likely to kick with great 
determination. If he does, gra§p the pole with the end 




Fig. 1.50.— The same after 
treatment. 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 175 

back under the arm, catch the hitching part of the halter 
up near the head, and run around with him, at the same 
time pressing the pole against the quarters, and hold until 
submitted to. When successful on one side, go to the op- 
posite side and repeat. Successful in this, pole him while 
standing, then untie and do the same. A remarkable fea- 
ture will now be that when he once gives up, he will be 
likely to act as indifferent to the poling as if he never cared 
anything about it. It will be advisable, however, to put 
on the War Bridle — the most powerful form — and pull him 
right and left a few times, which greatly intensifies the im- 
pression of power already made. 

The Third Method does not seem to work well on these 
cases because they will not resist under it ; it works well 
only on those cases which resist it hard for a short time, 
then give up unconditionally ; upon such it will be found 
very effective. While, as before explained, "throwing," 
or the First Method, does not produce impression sufficient 
to do much good unless the horse will try to resist it by 
getting up. The Breaking Big would work well upon most 
of these cases. Among this class there is occasionally a 
horse that will seem to fight through all the treatment 
when warmed up, either sulking when forced, or fighting 
back. A point in the management of such cases, which I 
have practiced with great success, but which must be done 
with great care, is to carry the treatment so far that when 
cool he will be somewhat sore, when he will be found not 
much inclined to resist. 

Now the point of success is to give him a short, sharp 
lesson, that wiU compel submission before he becomes 
warmed up ; as his warming up would defeat the work by 
destroying sensibility and stimulating resistance. Usually 
turning around a few times will be all that is necessary to 
force submission. A horse that at first would be Hkely to 



176 



KICKING. 




resist for hours, if pushed, will submit unconditionally in 
ten or fifteen minutes after becoming cool and over the ef- 
fects of the excitement. Then work up slowly and care- 
fully as before explained. 

For example : A small mustang 
pony, eight or nine years old, was 
brought me to experiment upon. 
The owner said he wished to show 
that he had a first-class kicker, and 
wanted a little fun out of him. At 
first, he did not seem to be very bad, 
but as he warmed up he kicked with 
the greatest fury ; and after two 
hours' effort, I was compelled to give 
him up, failing completely. The 

Fm. 151. -Expression of most ^^^j ^^^Hj kicked WOrSC thaU whoU 
obstinate cases. 

I commenced. Upon returning to 
that place four years afterward, I was surprised to learn 
that this pony had been used as a pet by the little boys 
and" girls of the family ; that he 
was driven and used everywhere 
to a phaeton, and was one of the 
finest and safest driving ponies 
in that country. The owner told 
me that a day or two after his 
having been handled by me, they 
thought they would see w^hat 
they could do with him, and to 
their surprise they found him per- 
fectly gentle. They put him in 
harness, and he drove off without any trouble. He be- 
haved so kindly that the children drove him, and he was 
highly valued for his docility. 

I found by experience that many cases when warmed 




Fig. 153.— AVill resist hard. 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 



177 



up would resist with such desperation that it would be very 
difficult and dangerous to force them to a point of submis- 
sion ; yet by putting them away until cool, and then re- 
peating the treatment, they would submit perfectly in a few 
minutes. Some of my greatest feats in breaking extremely 
bad kickers have been accomplished in this way. The ne- 
cessity for this repetition was fre- 
quently the cause of great em- 
barrassment. Perhaps an ex- 
tremely bad horse brought me 
for experiment would become so 
warmed up, and resist with so 
much determination, as to make 
the continuance of the effort little 
less than abuse. My only alter- 
native would be to induce the 




owner to bring the horse to the 



Fig. 153.— Most difficult type of 
character to break. 



next place of appointment, by 

guaranteeing to control and drive him there entirely gentle. 
This would excite so much suspicion and doubt in the minds 
of the class that they would invariably follow to see what 
the result would be. It then became a necessity to suc- 
ceed, as to fail would be sufficient reason for demanding a 
return of their money. But I seldom found much trouble 
in making my point, — usually a short, sharp lesson would 
be sufficient. 

Good cases illustrative of this principle are the Gal- 
lopsville Horse, Case No. 2, Subjection; Collins Horse, 
No. 6, Fear, and the Gates Horse, No. 3, Fear. While 
the last named could not be driven out of doors prudently 
when first handled, yet, afterward, when cool, the effect of 
the treatment was so marked that by merely testing a few 
moments two weeks afterward, he proved so gentle as to 
be driven without breeching, and down hill, through the 



12 



178 



KICKING. 




Fig. 154. — Ideal of bad character. 



main street of the village, controlled by word of command 
alone while eight or ten rods distant. The Hanky Horse, 
No. 5, Kicking, was perhaps the most marked case. This 
horse could not have been driven the first time handled, 

yet by a short repetition of 
the lesson next day, he was 
driven without difficulty. 

A great many interesting 
cases of this character could 
be referred to if necessary. 
The important point is not to 
do too much, yet enough to 
make the impression necessary 
to be able to force unconditional submission. Another 
point : No matter how well a horse may work immediately 
after being subdued, it should not be accepted as a proof 
that he is broken. He 
should be tested carefully 
when cool and OA^er the 
excitement. If there is 
the least indication to re- 
sistance, the lesson must 
be repeated until there 
is certainty of the horse 
being safe. It is certain 
that anything short of do- 
ing enough to make the 
horse safe, or to over- 
come the habit, will be likely to result in disastrous fail- 
ure ; for giving the horse liberty at any stage to fight 
back, practically destroys all that has been done, by teach- 
ing him to become cunning and treacherous. Hence the 
importance of making every step sure to the point of driv- 
ing, and establishing the impression so thoroughly that no 




Fig. 155. — Sullen nature. 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 179 

matter what the aggravation, there will be no inclination to 
repeat the habit. 

Switching Kickers. 

When a horse is greatly excited and irritated by fear 
or abuse, his nervous system is liable to become so sensi- 
tive that he will squeal and switch. This is more common 
to mares which are more impressible than horses ; conse- 
quently, when badly spoiled, they are more difificult to 
break. In this form it becomes involuntary resistance, or 
a species of insanity, and in extreme cases very difficult to 
overcome. The point is, if possible, to make a sufficiently 
strong, counteracting impression to overcome this. Very 
much will depend upon how much the nervous system has 
been shaken, and the peculiarity of disposition. Some of 
the worst kickers I have ever handled were colts which had 
been greatly frightened and abused in breaking. The course 
I pursue with such is about as follows : — 

If the case is one that will bear impressing sufficiently 
to overcome the kicking, I subject to regular treatment as 
advised for ordinary cases, directing my attention particu- 
larly to accustoming the quarters to being touched. Fail- 
ing in this, I use direct means of restraint, such as the 
kicking-s traps or over-draw checks. The kicking wiU now 
punish so severely that there will soon be fear to repeat 
it. The straps should be used in driving for some little 
time after the inclination to kick is overcome. 

Kicking-Straps. 

These straps should be cut at least two inches wide ; 
they should be made of two thicknesses of good harness 
leather, sewed together and fitted so they will come nicely 
around the leg between the fetlock and gambrel. There 
should be a strong wrought iron D stitched on the front 



180 



E:iCKi]^(^. 



sides. The insides should be lined with soft, thin leathei*, 
or buckskin, to prevent chafing the leg. If no Patent 
Bridle is available, use a strong, well-fitting halter, with 
the strap passing back between the legs over the belly- 
band ; or it may be attached to the belly-band by a piece 
of rubber. Next, take a strong hempen cord, not less than 
five-eighths of an inch in diameter, firmly wound, or a good 
piece of leather made round like a rein, run it through a 




Fig. 156. — Kicking-Straps as arranged for use. 

pulley or ring attached to the halter-strap a little back of 
the belly-band, and extend to the rings of the foot-straps. 
The point is to have the rig so regulated that the position 
of the horse will be perfectly natural in traveling; but 
should he run or kick, both legs coming back at once brings 
the whole force directly upon the nose. The straps should 
be kept on until the pain caused by the kicking makes the 
horse so much afraid to kick that he will not repeat it. 

Sometimes the straps are connected with the bit so that 
the horse will kick directly against the mouth. But this 



DETAILS OF TEBATMENT. 



181 




is objectionable because when the kicking is severe against 
the mouth it will be cut and bruised, besides it is liable to 
break the jaw. Even when kicking against the nose, by 
the restraint of the halter, there is possible danger of in- 
juring the spinal cord at the juncture 
of the head with the spinal column. 
I never had an accident occur from 
such a cause, though I used the treat- 
ment a great deal in my early experi- 
menting. I have heard of one case in 
Maine of a horse breaking his jaw by 
kicking against the bit, and one in 
Ohio, killed by the severity of the 
shock upon the neck. 

It will be found that when the horse 
kicks against the mouth or nose, he 
will soon learn to throw the head down 
to give greater length between it and 
the legs, as this destroys the force of the blow. With the 
use of the Patent Bridle the force of the kicking throws 
the head up, and at the same time punishes with such se- 
verity that there wiU not be much 
inclination to repeat it, and the 
habit will soon be overcome. 

Twenty years ago, a very bad 
mare defied my utmost efforts to 
stop her kicking, and as a matter 

Fig. 158. — Tail Strap detached. ^ . i x i o 

01 experiment 1 passed a rope irom 
the bit, to the hind leg below the fetlock, and thence back 
to the opposite side of the bit, and held it in my hand 
while I excited her to kick. After a few repetitions she 
gave up unconditionally. By this means I succeeded in 
breaking her of the habit, but the rope chafed and tore the 
skin so badly upon the legs that I had much trouble in 



Fig. 157.— Tail Strap. 




182 KICKING. 

curing them. To guard against this in other cases, I put 
on straps to which I attached rings, and passing the rope 
through them as before, I irritated her to kick, repeating 
until there was submission. But as this could not be car- 
ried out in driving, the kicking-straps, with the connection 
made to the bit, were devised ; after which the puUey ar- 
rangement was added. These straps are best adapted to 
kickers with the nervous system so weakened that the habit 
is in a great measure involuntary. 

Foot-Straps. 

I found that by tying up the leg, the horse was not 

only prevented from kick- 
ing, but so disabled that he 
could not go ; while giving 
freedom to travel, and dis- 
abling only at the moment 
of danger, made a far more 
powerful means of restraint, 
and became a very effective 
means for the control of run- 
away colts. It is seen that 

Fig. 159.— Foot Strap. • r. i i i • m t /» 

II the leg IS pulled from un- 
der just as there is intention to kick, it not only disables 
the same as if tied up, but serves to divert the horse from 
his purpose of kicking ; while at the same time he can be 
given freedom to move again when it is desirable. When 
there was danger of the horse lunging ahead I used a foot- 
strap upon both fore feet. If the horse attempted to lunge 
forward after one leg was taken up, I instantly followed 
by pulling the other from under. In the case of a doubt- 
ful horse, the foot-strap will be found a good reserve power. 
During my practice of late years, I seldom made use of 




DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 



183 



such means, but depend mainly upon the regular course of 
subjection to force submission. 

Over-Draw Check. 

The over-draw check can be modified in various ways, 
according to the case. Sometimes a simple over-draw check 
is all that is necessary. If more power is desired, in ad- 
dition to the check, the restraint can be carried to the hips, 
thence to the shafts. (See cut 161.) So that in the act of 
kicking, as the quarters are elevated, the restraint will be 




Fig. 160. — Simple method of forcing the head up, and preventing 
kicking by the elevation of the hips. 

instantly brought upon the head, throwing it so high as to 
disable. This principle of control was learned by the writer 
under the following circumstances : In 1861, when in Hen- 
derson, Jefferson Co., N. ¥., a half-witted fellow offered to 
instruct me how to drive any kicking, runaway horse. He 
said, " Bring the center of a slender rope of sufficient length 
to the top of the horse's head, and pass the ends down 
through the rings on each side of the bit, and thence back 
into the wagon as reins." I afterward used this means of 
control and found it would work well in some cases, though 
not in all. I gave the idea to a man named Hartman, in 
Lancaster, Pa., who modified it into what was afterward 
known as the " Hartman reins," which he patented. A 



184 



KICKING. 



great improvement in this for kickers, is to pass the reins 
over the hips to the shafts as explained. 

Checking the head high will sometimes hold in restraint 
a strong-willed, treacherous horse, that is liable to lunge 
sideways, or pull heavily. It will usually work well when 
a horse is a little irritable, and simply needs a little restraint 
to keep him inside the point of resistance, the same as 




Fig. 161. — The horse as disabled when there is an effort to kick. 

the tail-strap acts in preventing .the horse from kicking by 
keeping the tail confined and helpless. The simplest and 
best way of checking the head high is to pass the check- 
rein through gag-runners, which should be attached to the 
head part of the bridle well up near the ears, and buckle 
into an extra bit, which is to be held up against the roof 
of the mouth by means of a strap passing over the nose. 
This form of checking the head up and back will be found 
very effective. 

A common method in use years ago for kickers was to 



DETAILS OF TEBATMENT. 



185 




Fig. 163. — Simple method of 
controlling tlie head. 



put a triangular piece of iron, in form like a V, between the 
collar and bit. The central point resting upon the collar, 

and with both ends attached to the 
rings of the bit, it held the head up 
in position as desired. A strong- 
headed, doubtful horse will fre- 
quently drive with entire safety 
when the head is helplessly held up 
in this manner; but the check be- 
fore referred to is the simplest and 
best means. 

Sometimes the horse will kick 
only when the rein is caught under 
the tail. If he is simply irritable, 
and hugs the rein, the easiest way 
to prevent it is to wind an ordinary 
crupper with cloth, or cover nicely with chamios skin, 
or soft leather, until one half to two inches in diameter, as 
may be neces- 
sary. (See cut 
165.) This be- 
ing larger than 
the rein below 
makes it impos- 
sible for the 
horse to hug the 
rein with suffi- 
cient strength 
to hold it. 

When the tail becomes very sensitive from the continued 
chafing of the parts, its action becomes involuntary. In 
such cases it must be confined to make the horse safe. 
This can be easily done by buckling a small strap around 
it under the hair about two-thirds down the dock, from 




Fig. 163. — The same as in use 



186 



KICKING. 



which, on each side, extend a small strap to the hip-straps, 
and fasten short enough to prevent the tail from switching 
around and catching the reins. 

Hip-Strap. 

If the horse is irritable around the hips, but drives all 
right so long as restrained, or unable to bring the hind 




Fig. 164. — A simple method of keeping the head elevated 
to prevent kicking while driving. 

parts up, simply strapping him down will sometimes be all 
that is necessary to do in order to use him with safety. 
The best way to do this is as follows : Attach a loop to the 
harness between the hip and tail; through this pass a 
strong two-inch strap with ends attached firmly to the 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 187 

shafts on each side. There should be pieces of leather or 
iron screwed to the under sides of the shafts to keep the 
ends in place. 

Two points must he kept in mind in order to he success- 
ful : 1st. The shafts must be so stiff that they will not 
bend much. 2nd. The strap over the hip should be so 
strong that it will not break, and just tight enough to be 
drawn straight when in place, but not so long as to give 
any freedom to raise the hips. 

Four-ring Bit. 

The four-ring bit by its power will sometimes throw 
the nose up, and occasionally make a doubtful, headstrong 
horse drive all right ; but it is best 
adapted for the management of 
headstrong luggers. Sometimes a 
strong-headed puller that cannot 
be held by an ordinary bit will 
drive gentle with this. The ef- 
fectiveness of this bit is in the 
pressure of its center against the fig. 165.— Crupper as wound 
roof of the mouth. As made here- *° p''^'°* "^^'^^'^s the rem. 
tofore, when pulled upon very hard, these rings would slide 
in so far as to prevent the desired purchase against the 
palate. To prevent this, I devised the slot, or obstruction. 

Sometimes the Patent Bridle will work quite well in the 
management of kickers. 

For the Breaking Rig, see illustration with description 
in first chapter. 

It may be asked, " Is there any medicine by which you 
can make a horse gentle?" See "Medicine" in "Subjec- 
tion." 




188 KICKING. 

Kicking when Struck with the Whip in Driving. 

Some horses are usually gentle until struck or touched 
with a whip on the back or flanks, which they will resist 
by kicking. Or when not going fast enough, if hit sharply 
with a whip, the response is a kick. There is usually no 
fear of the wagon or of anything exhibited ; it is simply a 
sullen resistance, and unless treated properly is a very ugly 
habit to overcome. 

For a simple, ordinary case of this kind, put on the War 
Bridle, and after giving a few sharp pulls with it, touch 
him over the back with a whip, at each repetition striking 
harder until he can be struck quite hard without resisting. 
Should he kick, punish sharply with the cord, and repeat 
until there is no resistance. Now put on the harness with 
reins through the shaft-bearers, and drive around, touching 
gradually over hips and back. Should there be resistance, 
punish sharply with War Bridle, which should be left on 
under the bridle. Simply repeat until successful. This 
should be all that is necessary to do to break any young 
horse. But if the horse is very bad, it will be likely to 
fail. In such a case, subject to either method, as may be 
found advisable. If the First Method be tried, touch with 
the whip after throwing. If the Third, while pressure is 
on, touch or strike lightly in the same manner whenever 
sensitive, until there is no resistance. If Second Method 
is used, touch the part while the horse is going around. In 
either case the point must be made thoroughly. Now put 
on the harness ; if a Breaking Bit or Patent Bridle is avail- 
able, it should be used. If the horse will go ahead freely 
at command, the work will usually be sufficient. But if 
he sulks, refusing to go against the bit, the case will be 
serious. In such cases proceed about as follows : — 
I Get a good bow whip of the best quality, from six to 



DETAILS OF TEEATMENT. 189 

seven feet long, say in a quick and sharp manner, " Get 
up ! " If he does not respond at once, catch both reins in 
the left hand, step a little to left, at the same time lift the 
reins out of the way of the whip, and give him one or two 
sharp cuts around the legs up near the belly. Then quickly 
jerk upon the near rein to disconcert and throw the head 
up. If the horse springs ahead surprised and disconcerted, 
a few repetitions will soon establish the idea of going ahead 
when commanded. Should he, however, kick in response, 
this must at once be abandoned ; as in bad cases these fel- 
lows will stand sullenly, and fight every time struck. 
Grasp the reins as before in the left hand, and step to the 
right and forward of the quarters. Instantly after the 
sharp " Get up ! " give one or two keen cuts with the whip 
across the tip of the nose. This wiU so surprise him as to 
cause him to jump quickly. After a few repetitions he 
will, at command, spring ahead without being touched, when 
the point is made. Now drive around right and left until 
he will start or stop as desired. When the horse works 
well, make friends with him by giving apples, etc., which 
tells him that punishment is for resistance, and reward for 
obedience. No matter how stubborn these cases may ap- 
pear at first, if treated sharply in this way they Will in- 
variably work in weU. 

When I first hitched up " Gifibrd," he seemed to have 
his own mind about going, and would not start ahead when 
commanded. I gave him a sharp touch of the whip, when 
he kicked and smashed the dash in. This was his trick, 
of which I knew nothing. I at once unhitched him, and 
treated as just explained, until he would start promptly, 
and he never kicked afterward. 

Sometimes in driving or trotting, a horse wiU go off all 
right until struck with the whip or pushed a little, when he 
will sulk or kick. Such are usually horses showing a large 



190 KICKING. 

undercurrent of the positive or sullen nature, and are very 
provoking when irritated. They seem difficult to manage 
because there is no way of forcing that will not react in 
trouble. During my early experience I used the foot-strap 
with much success in the management of this habit. At 
the instant of touching sharply with the whip, pull the 
foot from under, which not only disconcerts the horse, but 
prevents tho kicking. Indeed, this alone will enable the 
perfect control of most of these cases. 

Kickers in Stall. 

In the first place, for the management of kickers in the 
stall, a great deal depends upon the size of the stall and 
adroitness of the man in approaching the horse. A very 
narrow stall makes it somewhat difficult, if not dangerous, 
to approach even many gentle horses. Such stalls are not 
only an abomination for the increased danger and incon- 
venience they cause in going around a horse, but for not 
affording sufficient freedom for the horse to lie down and 
step around. It is no reason for stalls being so constructed 
because somebody who should know better makes them so. 
If the stall is large, there will be better opportunity to 
keep out of reach, and, unless the horse is very vicious, 
there will be no difficulty in going around him with com- 
parative safety. 

Then, much depends upon the character of the man. 
A courageous, determined horse soon learns to become ag- 
gressive toward a naturally timid man who seems afraid 
to approach him. If a horse is very vicious in his stall, 
he is like any other dangerous brute upon which nothing 
short of a thorough course of subjective treatment will pro- 
duce any impression. But if irritable or cunning, a sharp 
lesson with the War Bridle until he will foUow promptly 



KICKEES IN STALL. 191 

will usually be sufficient; after which it may be left on for 
a day or two. 

The treatment for all ordinary cases should be about as 
follows : First, put on the War Bridle, Second Form, 
which may, if the case is stubborn, be turned into the 
Double Dy^aw Hitch Form, and make him feel its power 
sufficiently to follow promptly. Lead him into the stall, 
and while holding the cord, step in and out repeatedly, 
making him, during the time, keep his hind parts turned 
in tho opposite direction. This treatment may be accom- 
panied by giving apples, etc. 

If the case is important, and it is desired to be very 
thorough, after putting on the halter, put on the War 
Bridle, Second Form, with the part going through the 
mouth running through the rings on either side of the 
halter to keep it in place, and the part over the head well 
back upon the neck. Now pass the cord back to the end 
of the stall and tie to a ring or post, leaving it sufficiently 
long to give the horse room to step around as usual when 
tied by tho halter. When it is desired to go in, if he does 
not step around at command, untie the cord and give a 
sharp pull upon it, which will bring the head around, 
throwing the hind parts to the opposite side, when he can 
be approached with safety. This may be repeated when 
first put on for a few times, to teach the idea of stepping 
around when commanded. After a few repetitions he will 
soon learn, when approached and commanded, to step 
around. 

There is a great sleight in approaching vicious horses 
when in stalls, the disregard of which may sometimes 
cause a naturally gentle horse to kick if approached or 
touched unexpectedly. First, no matter how gentle a 
horse is, there should be no effort to go near or approach 
before attracting his attention by speaking to him. If at 



192 KICKING. 

aU doubtful, the course should he about as follows : When 
behind, a little to the near side, look directly at the horse's 
head and say sharply, " Gret around ! " repeating until the 
eye is caught. A great deal depends upon the expression 
of confidence and authority shown. An intelligent, cour- 
ageous horse will discern instantly any lack of confidence 
or power, and become correspondingly aggressive. 

At first the horse may look back and try to measure 
your strength and be disposed to question your advance. 
It will be a matter of will power now. Look at him with 
all the firmness you can, and repeat the " Get around ! " with 
the most thorough vim of expression. If a man of any 
nerve, but few horses will disobey. If he steps around, 
no matter if the ears are put back and the eyes partly 
closed showing inclination to kick, there wiU seldom be 
much danger. The eye kept firmly upon that of the horse, 
will discover any movement almost before it is made ; so 
reach the end of the stall fronting the horse, with head 
slightly turned to hold the eye, and make a quick, gliding 
leap or long step toward the shoulder. After getting 
well forward of the hips there wiU be little danger ; watch- 
ing the opportunity in this way, and moving quickly, will 
permit getting beyond reach of danger before the horse 
can kick. 

This is really the only secret of getting around or into 
the stall of a doubtful horse without getting hurt. (See 
chapter on " Stallions.") By observing closely, the inten- 
tions of the horse will always be revealed by the expres- 
sion of the eye and his actions. Danger is shown by the 
ears being thrown back, eyes partly closed, lips drawn 
back, and mouth perhaps partly open. If the horse wiU 
not move when commanded, but holds his position firmly, 
especially if one having a dark, lurking eye set well into 
the head, thick eyelids, and heavy ears, the character is 



itlClCmG WHILE HARNESSmG. 193 

treacherous and needless risks should not be hazarded. 
What such a horse does he will do quickly without warn- 
ing. But if he seems to yield, no matter how bad he is, 
and there is quickness in getting into the stall, as explained, 
there will be but little danger. 

I have frequently been able to go into the stalls of 
horses that were very dangerous, and have never been 
kicked or hurt while doing so. Many times the horse 
would kick the stall, but by a sharp, ringing command suf- 
ficient to disconcert, and by jumping quickly, I could al- 
ways get to the shoulder or head without being touched. 
In many cases I have been compelled to take the chances 
from necessity; but by observing these precautions, and 
calculating my chances carefully, I would be able to get 
by, though at the instant of doing so the horse would kick 
the stall behind me. 

When desiring to get out, pull the head around after, 
bringing the hind parts well around to the opposite side. 
The instant the halter is let go, step or spring beyond reach. 

While Harnessing. 

The habit of kicking while harnessing is always the re- 
sult of carelessness or bad treatment. Were the horse 
treated kindly and the harness put on gently until accus- 
tomed to it, there would be no trouble. Not being accus- 
tomed to the breeching or the crupper under the tail, a 
sensitive horse is liable to kick when feeling pressure upon 
those parts. I have frequently found horses gentle after 
the harness was on, yet they would kick violently when the 
attempt was made to put it on ; while others would kick 
only after it was on. All that is necessary to do in such 
cases, is to put on the War Bridle, and, after giving a few 
sharp pulls with it, hold firmly in the left hand, and while 
keeping it taut upon the mouth, with the right spread the 

13 



194 



KICKING. 



harness gently over the back and hips. The pressure of 
the cord upon the mouth will hold the attention of the horse 
sufficiently to allow putting the crupper under the tail and 
buckling. 

To break up the habit, it may be necessary to repeat 
this treatment two or three times, punishing sharply for 
any resistance, and encouraging by kind treatment for al- 
lowing it to be put on and off as desired. After gaining 
the attention by the War Bridle, it may be drawn down 
and tied as in cut 66, page 67, but not kept so more than 




Fig. 166. — As a bad case of this character will usually resist 
before treatmen-t. 

thirty seconds to a minute ; after which the harness can be 
put on or off as desired. It is very important in these 
cases to associate kindness with the treatment by giving 
apples, etc. 

Resistance to having the collar put on, or the neck 
touched in consequence of having been made sore, is some- 
times a formidable difficulty, as the horse may show great 
viciousness, striking or kicking violently. If the treat- 
ment named is not sufficient, then more force must be 



KICKING WHILE HARNESSING. 



195 



used; but with care, the War Bridle will be found suf- 
ficient. In such cases, attention must be given to having 
the collar large enough to permit putting easily over the 
head. Or if an open collar, it should be unbuckled and 
put on quietly over the neck. In addition, particular at- 
tention should be given to curing the parts if sore. A 
great point also in the management of such cases is in win- 
ning the confidence of the horse to bear having the sensi- 
tive parts touched by scratching the mane and other parts, 




Fig. 167. — As the horse will stand quietly to be harnessed 
after treatment. 

and imperceptibly approaching the sensitive parts until it 
is borne ; then follow by caressing, giving apples, etc. 

There may be cases also where resistance to the har- 
ness upon the hips, or crupper under the tail, will be very 
violent. In such cases a regular course of subjection may 
be necessary. One of the worst horses the writer ever 
handled was of this character, compelling to resort to the 
First, Second, and Third Methods, which were in part 
repeated to break him of the habit. 



19(> KICKIKG^. 

Kicking and Biting While Grooming. 

The habit of kicking and biting while grooming, is in 
all cases the result of bad treatment. A sharp currycomb 
or card is usually raked recklessly over the legs and belly, 
regardless of cutting into the skin. The horse may snap, 
kick, and almost lie down upon the ground in the effort to 
avoid or relieve the pain ; but no more attention is given 
to this than to kick and pound as a means of compelling to 
stand quietly. Sharp currycombs, or any instrument that 
will hurt, should not be used upon such horses. Should 
the horse be over-sensitive, the result of former bad treat- 
ment, restrain a little with the War Bridle until he will 
submit to being cleaned as directed. In such cases, it is 
always advisable to commence at an insensible part, and 
work gradually to the part at which the groo.ming is re- 
sisted. 

Bad to Bridle. 

Most horses will submit readily to be bridled by giving 
a short lesson with the War Bridle, and tying down as ex- 
plained, when the bridle can be put on or oil' as desired. 
Care should be taken to have the bridle large and easy-fit- 
ting. As there is submission, give more freedom until 
there is no resistance. Should the horse show viciousness, 
and resist this treatment, then subject to Second Method, 
and while tied, handle the head and put on the bridle. 
When untied, restrain with the cord, being careful in such 
cases to work gently, rewarding Kberally for obedience. 
Able once to take off or put on the bridle without force, 
repeat for some time, holding the attention by giving ap- 
ples, etc. Such a horse should be bridled with care for 
some time to outgrow the sensibility. 



THE PUTNEY HOESE. 197 

Case 1. — Putney Horse. 

This was an eight-year old bay, of close, compact struct- 
ure, weighing about 950 pounds, and owned by J. B. 
Blanchard, of Putney, Yt. He was a runaway kicker of 
the worst stamp, having defied every effort to break him. 
In a passive condition he appeared to be a horse of ordinarily 
good character, with eyes rather dark, of medium size, and 
with a sullen expression. His ears were rather long, and 
set on well apart, quite long from eyes to ears, and with 
good, broad forehead, — all indicating endurance, courage, 
and pluck, of the most decided character. When brought 
forward to be experimented upon, no intimation was given 
of his character. It was simply claimed that he was un- 
broken. Upon trial he developed the most desperate re- 
sistance. 

Not having a suitable place in which to handle him, the 
First Method, which was exactly adapted to his tempera- 
ment, could not be used. Resisting the Second Method, 
he was subjected to the Third, which was carried to its ut- 
most limit before he yielded. 

Upon testing the mouth he developed the most deter- 
mined opposition. With the Breaking Bit he pulled ten men 
— five to each rein — on a walk across the barn, resisting 
even to being pulled down upon his knees, but submitted 
in about forty minutes. The whole treatment required 
about an hour. Next day he was brought to Westmore- 
land, N. H., where I was advertised, and upon testing him 
he proved perfectly gentle. On the following day the 
owner drove him to a sleigh twenty miles to Keene, where 
the horse was well known, and also drove him in the streets 
while there without breeching, proving him perfectly gen- 
tle. The horsemen declared they knew such a horse could 
not be broken, but here was the undoubted proof of his do- 
cility. This incident enabled me to make a large class. 



198 



KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIVB CASES. 



Case 2. — Malone Horse. 

This was probably one of the most notable kicking, run- 
away horses ever known in the State of Ohio, special 
reference to which is made in "Personal Experience." He 
was a fine, blooded trotter, eight years old, about 16 hands 
high, and weighed about 1050 pounds. In appearance he 
was quiet, and perfectly gentle to ride and handle. The 

greatest effort had 
been made for years 
to break this horse, 
but without success. 
At the time of my 
visit to the place, all 
hope of ever being 
able to subdue him 
had been abandoned. 
I subjected him to 
the F i r s t Method, 
which he at first vio- 
lently resisted, but 
after being thrown about a dozen times he submitted un- 
conditionally. It was not sufficient, however, to produce 
the degree of submission desired, and he was next subjected 
to the Second Method, which he also resisted with great 
courage, requiring in all about twenty minutes. The foun- 
dation was now laid for the next step, — that of obtaining 
control of the mouth. This was, if anything, his strong 
point, having resisted all kinds of bits and rigging. 

When tested with the Breaking Bit, he plunged against 
it, fighting so hard that at one time he went over the rope 
upon the seats. By careful management, however, he was 
in about twenty minutes brought under perfect control. 
Next morning I tested him hard in the ring, and found him 




Fig. 168.— The Malone Horse. 



THE MALONB HOESE. 199 

manageable. I now took him outside the city to know 
definitely what he would bear in the street. Upon careful 
trial he proved entirely manageable, when I drove him back. 
I now trained him to stop, turn right and left, to the mo- 
tion of the whip, continuing the lesson about ten minutes, 
resting as long, then repeating until he would turn right 
and left as desired. I employed every spare moment in 
this way up to 12 o'clock, when I hitched him up without 
reins, letting shafts go against the quarters, etc., and drove 
to the square, where there was a large crowd, and proved 



Fig. 169. — An incident of the Malone Horse. Result of an effort 
by a horse-breaker to drive him. 

him perfectly gentle. For several days, each time, before 
hitching up, I tested him by running the shafts against his 
quarters, to remind him of his lesson ; otherwise he was 
treated with great care and kindness, being quieted down 
by petting, giving apples, etc. I explained to the class 
that, in the management of this and all other cases of like 
character, it would be necessary, after a spell of idleness, 
to remind of the lesson by a slight repetition of treatment. 
I sold the horse to a leading horseman, A. S. Robins, 
who had been a member of the class, and who had wit- 
nessed all the details of the treatment. I especially ex- 
plained to him the necessity for this case. Upon my leav- 



200 



KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 



ing the city lie desired me to take the horse with me for a 
few weeks, which I did. Finding his constitution had been 
seriously injured by the severity of the treatment to which 
he had been previously subjected in the effort to break 
him, and that the least use of him got him off his feed, 
to improve his condition I had him carefully fed, and kept 
quiet during the time in my care, over a month, intending, 
as a matter of safety, before allowing him to be taken away, 
to give him another short lesson ; but while I was absent 
the owner sent for him. After letting him rest a short 




■«»,«^-r' 



.\ 






^fl 






y 



Fig. 170. — The Malone Horse as driven, next day after treatment, on the 
Square, without bridle, reins, or breeching. 

time, he hitched him to a buggy, took in a friend, and drove 
around the city all right. But when near home, on driv- 
ing sharply round a corner at the Kenard House, perceiv- 
ing the horse wiggle his tail as if to kick, he jumped out on 
one side, and his friend on the other. The horse, finding 
himself free, ran away, and tore the wagon to pieces. Some 
said he kicked ; others that he did not. Happening in the 
city the next day, and hearing that the famous Malone 
horse had run away, I called upon Mr. R. for an explana- 
tion. The moment he saw me he said : — 



THE WATSON HORSE. 201 

" Do n't say a word. I am entirely to blame ; not the 
horse. I drove him all over the city, and never had a 
horse drive nicer. But somehow I got the idea he was go- 
ing to kick, and before I knew what I was about, I jumped 
out and let him go. He did n't try to kick." 

I said, " Let me take him, I will soon make him so he 
will drive with perfect safety." 

" No," he replied, " I am afraid of him, and shall never 
ride behind him again." 

I give these details, mainly, to show how liable good 
horsemen, of even much intelligence, are to fail on account 
of not carrying out the instructions properly. 

Case 3. — Watson Hokse. 

This was a kicking, runaway horse of the worst char- 
acter, owned by a coal-dealer named Watson, in Memphis, 
Tenn. He was a rather heavy-boned, light gray gelding, 
nine years old, and weighed about 1030 pounds. There 
were so many incidents of interest connected with this 
horse that I give some of the details : He was in appear- 
ance and color very much like the last one referred to, 
simply a little heavier boned and shorter legged, but a 
horse of wonderful pluck and endurance. He was ac- 
knowledged to be the worst runaway kicker in the State 
of Tennessee. Over a year before, a horse-drover from 
Kentucky, hearing of him, claimed he could drive him or 
any other living horse. Upon trial the horse ran away, 
clearing himself from the wagon, throwing the man out so 
violently as to cause an arm to be broken, and otherwise 
seriously injuring him. Afterward, a mule-drover from the 
eastern part of the State claimed to be able to drive him, 
betting largely upon the results. As before, the horse ran 
away, threw the man out, nearly killing him, and plunged 
into the Mississippi River, from which he was with diffi- 



202 KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIYE CASES. 

culty rescued. Upon my arrival there, this man was still 
confined in the city, helpless from the effects of the injury. 

It was considered a good joke to test me with this 
horse ; and to do anything there, I found it necessary to 
break him. I took him outside the city for treatment, and 
subjected him to First Method. Not proving sufficient, I 
followed it quickly with Second, alternating with First, 
then again with the Second with great rapidity, when he 
submitted to being touched around the quarters without 
offering to kick. 

Upon trying his mouth I found it entirely unmanage- 
able ; but after about an hour's effort, succeeded in making 
him drive perfectly gentle. The same afternoon I drove 
him, without breeching, down the principal street of the 
city by word of command, while distant from him eight or 
ten rods, letting him go fast or slow, stopping and starting 
him as I desired. It was believed, however, that he must 
have been under the influence of medicine. To test this, he 
was shut up for a week, after which I was requested by Gen- 
erals Forest, Rucker, and other leading citizens, to drive 
him to a carriage. Upon arriving, I found the horse hitched 
ready to be driven, and the demand, " We want to see you 
get in and drive this horse now." This was decidedly 
risky, as it is rarely that sufficient impression can be made 
upon the brain by one lesson to make a horse safe eight 
days afterward. To fail, as they predicted, would of course 
be equivalent to exposing me as a humbug. Pretending to 
be under the influence of liquor, I staggered toward the 
horse's head, and with the apparent effort of steadying my- 
self, with the right hand I grasped both reins back of the 
jaw, and gave a sudden pull down and back, at the same 
time saying sharply, " Whoa ! " The horse yielded per- 
ceptibly to this, which was sufficient to show me that the 
mouth was entirely manageable. I immediately got in, 



THE HETTEICK HOESE. 



203 



drove the horse about ten rods, turned him quickly around, 
and drove hack down hill on a fast trot. Upon reaching 
them I threw the lines out over his head and yelled, 
'* Whoa ! " He stopped so quickly as to slide fully ten 
feet. All were convinced there was no humbug about that, 
and joined in voting me all right. 

Case 4. — Hettrick Horse. 

For a domestic horse, this was one of the most vicious, 
striking, kicking, runaway brutes the writer ever saw. 
He was a large sorrel, 
weighing about 1150 lbs., 
and was owned by a man 
named Hettrick, who 
kept a hack-stable on 
Thirtieth-st., near Sixth 
Avenue. Mr. Hettrick 
first saw the horse hitched 
up in Twenty-fourth-st., 
to a big cart, with both 
wheels blocked. Two men 
were holding him by the 
head, and the third in the 
cart holding by the reins. 
The horse was sold for |275, on condition that he could be 
driven. Notwithstanding the precautions taken, at the first 
jump he ran away, tearing the cart to pieces. Mr. Het- 
trick left his card, stating that he would give $50 for the 
horse, and he was accordingly sent to him for that price. 
As he expressed himself to me that evening, he was will- 
ing to give $50 for a good subject with which to test me. 

The moment I saw the horse I knew I had an unusually 
dangerous fellow to deal with. I told the owner I did not 
consider it prudent to take such a horse before a class un- 




Fig. 171.— The Hettrick Horse after 
being subdued. 



204 



KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 




THE HETTEICK HOESE. 



205 



til I knew what he would bear, as it might cause me con- 
siderable trouble to get to him, and besides expose the 
class to accident. As he could be led safely by keeping 
well out to the end of the halter, I had him taken over to 
my place, on the opposite side of the street, and tied to the 
center-pole. I found I could not go near him to touch any 
part of his body without getting struck or kicked. His re- 
sistance was so remarkable in this respect that I give an il- 
lustration of it. But once getting my hands upon him, 
which took me nearly an hour to do, I was so provoked 




Fig. 173 — The Hettrick Horse as driven in the street next day. 

that I did not stop until I had completely subdued him. I 
subjected him to Second Method, which he resisted, acting 
more like a wild, untamable animal than a horse. At one 
time he jumped over the rope upon the seats, breaking 
down several of them, — just such an accident as I had an- 
ticipated. I next subjected him to First Method, then 
again to Second, which completely subdued him. The rest 
was easy ; he was simply tested with the Breaking Bit un- 
til compelled to submit to it. He was hitched up the next 
day, driven to Central Park, and proved entirely gen- 
tle, in single or double harness. He had so much of the 
wild, mustang nature that, notwithstanding his entire do- 
cility in harness, it would have been a dangerous experi- 



206 ' KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIYE CASES. 

ment, even after being thus subdued, excepting when done 
very cautiously, to put the hand upon his nose, as it would 
cause him to snort and strike. 

This case was so interesting that I had an accurate 
drawing made of his head, which I had engraved with 
others, and which is given at the heading of this case. 
Notwithstanding it was an accurate drawing of the head 
after being subdued, and shows a very bad expression of 
character, it scarcely gives an idea of the striking expres- 
sion of viciousness before being subdued. 

Case 5. — Hankey Mare. 

This was a seven-year-old mare, owned by Mr. F. A. 
Hankey, of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. She was a bright 
bay, weighing about 1000 pounds, of remarkably strong, 
firm texture of body. She had a good intelligent head, 
showing the indications of great activity and pluck. The 
eyes were rather small, showing much white, eyelids rather 
heavy, quite long from eyes to ears, and ears long. 

She was raised by the owner, Mr. Hankey, who tried 
to break her when she was three years old, but, notwith- 
standing he resorted to every possible expedient, completely 
failed. She not only resisted the control of several men, 
but ran away, carrying with her a heavy four-horse wagon 
loaded with manure. The following letter to a cousin of 
his, Wm. Motter, of Emmetsburg, wiU explain itself: — 

"Deak Sib: — 

"I was a member of Mr. Magner'a class yesterday in Gettysburg. He 
had a class of over forty scholars. I took in my mare for him to handle, 
which I had been trying to break from the time she was three years old, and 
could do nothing with her. She was the worst runaway kicking mare I ever 
saw, and I had given up all hopes of ever being able to break her. After 
trying every way I could to break her and failing, I made up my mind I 
would fix her for once so she couldn't run away; so I filled my large, four- 
horse wagon with manure, and hitched her to it, with three other horses. 
Notwithstanding there were three men holding her in addition, she carried 
wagon, horses, and men, right away with her mouth, and tore everything to 
pieces. It took two hours yesterday to control her. To-day I took her to 



THE GOODMAN HOESB. 207 

Fairfield, where she was hitched up, before the class, perfectly gentle, not 
minding the cross-piece running against her quarters, or showing the least 
inclination to kick. I write this to say to you, and all my friends, to join 
his class and learn his system. He is no humbug. The knowledge to be 
gained is that which farmers and horse-owners cannot aiFord to be without. 
"Yours Truly, F. A. Hankey." 

The facts of her running away with a four-horse wagon, 
I was positively assured to be in every particular true. 
Mr. Hankey joined the class on condition that the mare 
should be driven gentle. Being compelled to handle her 
in the midst of a large crowd in an ordinary sized carriage- 
house, with hard ground floor, the difficulty of her subjec- 
tion was greatly increased. She was subjected first to 
Third Method, which was carried to the fullest extreme 
for about fifteen minutes, then to the Second, after which 
again to the Third, when she submitted to have the quar- 
ters touched without kicking. 

Her resistance to the bit was extreme, and it required 
over an hour to make her yield at all to its restraint. Not 
considering it safe to drive her while warm, I told the 
owner if he would take her to Fairfield next day that, with 
a little additional treatment, she could be driven with en- 
tire satisfaction. He and a large number of the class fol- 
lowed me there, where, as promised, she was driven with 
entire success. As explained in chapter on " Kicking," 
though many of these extremely desperate cases cannot 
be driven while warm, because liable to fight back, which 
would be equivalent to failure, by putting away until cool 
and over the excitement, they can be driven with but little 
difficulty. If the horse cannot then be driven with entire 
safety, the safest and best way is to repeat the lesson, 
when the driving will be made easy. 

Case 6. — Goodman Horse. 

This case is included not only to show some of the dif- 
ficulties the writer encountered during his early experience. 



208 KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

but to call attention to a type of character that will often 
be met. 

In Goodman, Mississippi, I had a large class. The only 
subject offered for experiment was an ordinary looking sor- 
rel, medium sized, and to all appearance, perfectly docile. 
This was all the more puzzling to me, as I noticed a gen- 
eral expression of interest to see the horse driven. To il- 
lustrate the First Method, the " throwing rig " was put on, 
when, with scarcely an effort of resistance, he dropped 
down upon his side without appearing to have energy 
enough to get up. He was equally indifferent to the Sec- 
ond Method. No matter how confined or pushed, he could 
not be made to go around rapidly enough to cause the least 
dizziness ; also out of harness he was as indifferent as an 
ox while having a pole brought against his quarters or legs. 
While attempting to drive in harness, there was no resist- 
ance to being hitched up; but the moment started, he com- 
menced such a volley of kicking as I never saw a horse do 
before. If confined too closely he would drop sullenly 
upon his belly, not attempting to resist until again upon 
his feet and an effort was made to move him, when he 
would repeat the kicking. 

I told the class I never saw such a kicker before, that 
the simplest way of satisfying them would be to give them 
their money back. Their answer was : — 

" No, sir ; you advertised to drive any horse. We have 
furnished you with one, and we want to see you drive him. 
If you can't do it, we will see that you stop traveling 
through the State swindling the people." 

This implied that if I could not do it my career would 
be short. It was not a matter of teaching the class any 
more, but of driving the horse. Aided by a number of the 
class, who really did all they could to help me, I worked 
upon the horse from four o'clock in the afternoon till ten at 



THE GOODMAN HOESB. 209 

night, without making the least apparent headway in his 
subjection. The horse was now put in the stable, when he 
went to eating as unconcernedly as though nothing had 
happened. Next morning I again took him in hand, put- 
ting him before a cart, and working him until dark with- 
out, so far as I could see, making any progress whatever in 
his control. I went to bed thoroughly tired, but deter- 
mined to go through the matter at any hazard. 

Next morning, after breakfast, I went out to look at 
him. He stood eating, apparently as quiet and unconcerned 
as though he had not been touched. I stepped into his 
stall to study him a little closer, and found his mouth simply 
a little sore from the effects of the bit which had been used. 
In attempting to back him out of the stall he resisted. 
This so provoked me that I determined for once to have 
the best of him. I put the hitching part of the halter, 
which was of ordinary rope, through his mouth, and sent 
him back on a run to the middle of the floor. At this 
point he collected himself for a desperate fight, but my tem- 
per being up, I sent him back out of the barn into the mid- 
dle of the yard, against the reach of an old lumber wagon 
which happened to be there. Now commenced a most des- 
perate struggle, which lasted fully a minute, he making 
an effort to kick up, and I to hold him so closely against 
the reach that he could not do it. He finally gave up the 
contest, quivering all over. His whole nature seemed now 
to be changed. I knew I had him safe, and at once hitched 
him up without breeching, and drove him through the 
streets perfectly gentle. All expressed themselves per- 
fectly satisfied, saying, " You are a good fellow," etc. Cer- 
tainly I felt happy in being able to feel myself out of the 
scrape. At my request the owner took him to Carrolton, 
about thirty miles distant, where, to the surprise of the 
people who knew his former bad character, I drove him 

14 



210 itlCKING.^ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

hitched to a wagon without hreeching, starting and stop- 
ping him by word of command while ten rods distant. This 
was the means of making me a large class there. 

This horse was nine years old, half mustang and half 
thoroughbred. He was of medium size, strong and com- 
pact in form. His owner, who had the reputation of being 
one of the best horsemen in that part of the State, told me 
he never had a horse before that he could not break, but 
this one defied his utmost effort, — in fact, he never saw 
such a horse before. 

The Third Method would have enabled the easy man- 
agement of this case. The method of treatment should 
have been about as follows : When subjected to pressure 
he should have been put in shafts or poles and made to move, 
letting the cross-piece strike the quarters; as he submitted, 
the pressure should have been removed until he could be 
driven without restraint. If properly carried out, I am 
confident this course would, as proved in the management 
of a great many cases of like character, have enabled his 
easy control in fifteen to thirty or forty minutes. 

The Breaking Rig would also have enabled his easy 
management. 

I give the particulars of this case mainly to show 
through what effort much of my success was obtained, as 
well as to impress more clearly the course of treatment to be 
pursued. Much of my trouble really arose from ignorance, 
or in not knowing what to do. In this connection I think 
it advisable for future reference to make the following ex- 
planation : I have reminded in the treatment of this case 
that the Second Method would not work, because the horse 
would not turn. I refer to it to show how little I knew 
about the true principle of carrying out this valuable method 
of treatment at that time, notwithstanding I invented it, and 
had practiced it for over ten years with great success. The 
treatment by this method should have been as follows : — 



THE GOODMAN HOESE. 211 

First, tie just short enough to move him. If tied too 
short there is danger of his rearing up, mustang style, and 
falling over backward, or of going round so quickly as to 
fall down before the nervous system can be sufficiently 
impressed to prevent his lunging or throwing himself. The 
aim should be to move the horse moderately at first, grad- 
ually forcing up quicker, but not to the point of falling. 
After tying, have ready a good bow whip, stand upon the 
outside, and give him a good sharp touch across the nose. 
After two or three times the horse will usually stop, and 
throw the head down and forward, pulling upon the halter 
with great severity. Now tie a little shorter, and force 
more quickly with the whip. If inclined to pull sullenly, 
force up quicker. The more sullen the temperament, the 
more necessity for compelling more activity with the whip. 
The greatest alertness and judgment are required to do this 
well. First, the instant the horse is about to fall, he should 
be quickly untied and tied in the opposite direction before 
he regains his balance, repeating in this way perhaps two 
or three times. All this should not ordinarily require more 
than five or eight minutes, though in some cases it may re- 
quire longer time. When properly done, the effect of this 
treatment is sometimes quite surprising. Next, put on the 
harness with the Breaking Bit, under which the War Bridle 
may be put for reserve. Drive the horse around, frighten- 
ing him to jump ahead, and disconcerting by an occasional 
sharp j3ut of the whip across the nose. The horse will not 
usually resist until put in harness, when he is apt to fight 
back quite hard. When this is attempted, fight it through, 
or rush him over it, which can be done by the War Bridle, 
the Double Draw Hitch Form is best. This enables lifting 
him right and left out of his tracks, as desired, which has 
a powerful influence in discouraging these sullen cases at 
this point. But with the Third Method, as explained, the 



212 KICKmG.^ILLUSTEATIVB CASES. 

management of these cases becomes still easier and sim- 
pler. 

Case 7. — McYay Hokse. 

This case was very nearly like the last one referred to, 
with the exception of a large blending of the nervous tem- 
perament with that of the sullen or sulky nature, and, of 
course, was more intense in resistance. She had kicked 
from the time she was a colt, and had become so fixed in 
the habit that she would kick and squeal as soon as the 
door of her stable was opened. As this is a very remark- 
able case I will give its history : — 

The firm of McVay & Allison bought of L. L. Dorsey, 
of Kentucky, the well known breeder of "Gold Dust" trot- 
ting stock, three young mares and a stallion. One of these 
mares was a most desperate kicker, and considered a hope- 
less case. She was sold at an exceedingly low price to get 
rid of her. The buyers supposed they had an especially 
good bargain, not anticipating any trouble in breaking her. 
Upon getting the horses home, the most persistent effort 
was made to break this mare, employing for the pur- 
pose, at different times, the most successful horse-breakers 
to be found in that part of the State. Every effort only 
left her worse than before. At the time of my visit there 
she was seven years old, and regarded by her owners as 
worthless. 

In spite of the most liberal advertising in this town, I 
found it impossible to excite the least interest in my efforts; 
and as a last resort offered to forfeit $500, if I could not 
subdue and drive without breeching, in forty minutes, any 
horse that could be produced. I was entirely ignorant of 
this mare, which, as can be seen, was an unusually difficult 
case, or I would not have ventured taking such a risk. 
The owners, supposing they had a sure thing on this mare 



THE McVAY HOESE. 213 

to break me down, told^ their superintendent to join the 
class, and take her in ; that they did not care if she was 
killed ; for as they could not break her they did not wish 
to breed from her, and she was, consequently, good for 
nothing. A few who were let into the secret came for- 
ward and bought tickets, feeling sure that they could get 
their money back, not having the most remote idea that 
the mare could be driven in the time specified. Upon see- 
ing her, I saw at once that she was one of the worst kick- 
ers I ever had brought me to experiment upon before a 
class ; and that to succeed at all, it must be by a well-di- 
rected and supreme effort, — a sort of rush that would break 
up her confidence before she warmed up. 

She was subjected to First Method, as a matter of trial, 
which she did not resist, and it was, in consequence, use- 
less in her case. The Third Method was next used, and 
carried to the utmost of what could be done with it, and 
followed quickly with the Second. The important point 
to which I wish to call attention in the management of this 
case is, that it was made effective only by forcing her rap- 
idly with a whip (as explained in the application of the 
treatment at the close of the last case) , after which she was 
harnessed quickly, and rushed around the ring rapidly with- 
out kicking back once successfully. A little time was now 
taken in testing her, to which she submitted uncondition- 
ally, when the doors were thrown open, and she was driven 
up and down the street to the surprise of all who knew her. 
All was done within forty minutes. It was yet believed 
by the owners, and all who knew her, that she would be 
as bad as ever the next day. I cautioned the man who 
brought her in (who was claimed to be one of the best 
horsemen in the country) to test her very carefully, by 
partly repeating the treatment for several days ; and doing 
this I thought he would be able to hold her gentle. 



214 KICKING.— ILL USTKATIVE CASES. 

Next morning, after breakfast, this man called upon me 
at the hotel, and requested me to go into the street with 
him. After going a few rods, he pointed to a horse har- 
nessed to a buggy, and hitched to a post. " There she is," 
said he. And sure enough, there was the mare. I felt in- 
dignant that he should disregard my instructions. But he 
said he had tried her in every way that morning, that she 
could not be made to kick, so he concluded to hitch her up 
and drive her down (two miles), and that she had driven 
all right. 

About six weeks later, when at Newark, Ohio, Mr. 
McVay came to me, and stated that his mare was perfectly 
gentle, and the most promising and valuable mare in Rich- 
land County ; that he used her for family driving, and one 
day while driving her rapidly before a sleigh, in company 
with his children, the breeching broke, letting the sleigh 
run against her heels. He expected, of course, she would 
kick and run away, but, to his surprise, the instant he said, 
" Whoa ! " she stopped quietly, not showing the least fear, 
or offering to kick. He added that if I would come 
back to Mansfield I could get as large a class as I would 
want. I felt so indignant at the contemptible opposition 
and prejudice to which I had been subjected there, that I 
said I would not go back and teach a class there under 
any condition. 

It is proper to explain that the mare's not kicking that 
morning was very much a matter of chance. Had she 
kicked, the effect of the treatment the day before would 
have been entirely undone. This is referred to, to show 
the importance, at this stage, of being careful to make 
every step sure in the management of such cases, and leave 
no chance for failure. 



THE STEVENS HOESE. 



215 



Case 8. — General Knox Stallion. 



This was a four-year-old black stallion, owned by Mr. 
Stevens, of Lancaster, N. H., and is a case of so much in- 
terest that I will give the details. 

When at a small town in Vermont, forty miles from 
this point, a horse-breaker, who attended my lectures, 
wished to know whether I intended visiting Lancaster. 
Answering " Yes," he said, " You 
will get the worst horse there to 
handle you ever saw in your life. 
He will do everything mean a 
horse can do. The owner is a 
good horseman, but wishing to 
take no chances, he sent him here 
for me to break. I had him here 
six weeks, and succeeded in driv- 
ing him in harness, but could really 
do nothing at all with him. If he 
could do nothing else he would 
kick, lunge into the fence, or throw 
himself down. I was arrested 
twice for cruelty to him. I could have broken him, but did 
not have the time, so I sent him home. You will find 
him there, and I tell you he is a bad one." 

When I went to Lancaster the owner of this colt was 
pointed out to me. I walked up and invited him to join 
the class. He replied that he had no confidence whatever 
in me ; that he had seen any number of horse-breakers, 
etc., and knew all he wanted to know about horse-taming. 
I said to him : — 

" I believe, sir, you have a horse you cannot manage, 
and I can put you in the way of breaking him." 




Fig. 174.— The Steve us Horse 
after being subdued. 



216 KICKI.^G.^ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

" You cannot break him," said he ; " I can break any 
horse you can." 

" You cannot break your colt/' said I. 

" No," he answered, " nor can any one else do it," 

" Bring him. here," said I. " If I have a correct im- 
pression of the case, I believe I can drive him gentle in 
twenty or thirty minutes." Finally yielding, the colt was 
sent for, and led forward for my inspection. I stated at 
once, that I could drive him without breeching in fifteen 
minutes. 

"It is utterly impossible," said Mr. Stevens. "You 
don't know anything about him." 

I told him to come into the class, and if I did not hitch 
up and drive the colt in fifteen minutes and convince him 
there was no humbug about my treatment, that I would 
not only give him his money back, but $25, in addition, 
also guaranteeing to give him $500, if I injured the horse 
in any way. 

He looked at me sharply, saying, " I do not know 
what to think of it. Either you are one of the worst hum- 
bugs in the world, or else you know more about horses than 
any other living man ; I do not know which." He finally 
concluded to join the class, with the understanding that if 
I failed iii the least he should hold me strictly responsible 
for any damage done to the horse. On this condition I 
took his name and money. 

I saw at once where the trouble was. The colt was in- 
tensely sensitive, but intelligent, and any treatment which 
would excite him in the least would make him a most dif- 
ficult subject to manage. I knew also just the treatment 
he would bear. He was so nervous that when the bedding 
was being scraped up, or moved behind him, he would al- 
most jump into the manger from fear. He was subjected 
with care to the Third Method, using only ordinary press- 



THE STEVENS HOESB. 217 

ure, when he submitted readily to treatment, and, as prom- 
ised, was hitched up and driven gentle. The owner had 
to admit that he was astonished at the result. On the fol- 
lowing day the horse was taken to the next town, where I 
was advertised, hitched up and driven, without breeching, 
in the street. A week later Mr. Stevens informed me that 
the colt was just as gentle as when I left him, his character 
being completely changed. The whole trouble in this case 
was bad management. I include the case mainly to show 
the importance of knowing what to do, and how to apply 
the treatment properly. 

The horse-breaker previously referred to had been a 
member of my class many years before, and supposed he 
knew all that could be learned about the management of 
such cases, and was, in fact, considered an extra good horse- 
breaker, yet, as seen, he was entirely incompetent to man- 
age this case. 

Any careful, patient man, who knew nothing about my 
methods of subjection, could, by taking time, have managed 
this case, without serious difficulty, by proceeding about as 
follows : First, fill the pockets with good apples ; next, 
take a pole something like a rakestale, and while holding 
the horse by the halter bring the end slowly over the back 
and hips, rubbing gently down the quarters and legs, back 
and forth. In the meantime give a little apple, and caress. 
This lesson repeated a few times would have made him en- 
tirely fearless of being touched and handled. Next, the 
gradual process of driving around in harness, and poles, as 
explained in Colt Training, would have made him entirely 
fearless of being touched around the quarters by shafts, 
etc., and would have taught him to be guided ajid controlled 
by the reins, and driven to a light sulky. In this way he 
could have been grown in slowly, within one-half to a day's 
time, and not have learned anything about resistance. 



218 KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

Case 9. — Wild Ravenna Colt. 

In conclusion I will refer to a case which caused me a 
great deal of anxiety on account of the danger of bringing 
him under canvas, and treating before a class. I introduce 
it mainly as a good representative of a certain class of wild 
colts, and to show the wonderful change that can be pro- 
duced in a horse by proper treatment. 

While at Ravenna, Ohio, during the County Fair, I had 
a canvas on the ground for my special use. A colt was led 

in from a distance of 
some five or s i x 
miles, between two 
men, who controlled 
him by a long rope 
attached to either 
side of the halter 
The colt was six 
years old, weighing 
from 1050 to 1100 
pounds, of so wild 

Fig. 175.— The Ravenna Colt. , . , . 

and impulsive a 
character that nothing could be done in the way of break- 
ing him. He seemed quiet enough when not approached, 
touched, or in any way excited ; but would rush or jump 
impulsively around more like a wild steer or mule than a 
horse, the moment any one came in sight, or near, as 
though to lay hands upon him. When led on the ground, 
there was a wide scattering of the people for some dis- 
tance around him, as it was evident that should the least 
thing occur to get him started he would be liable to pre- 
cipitate himself into their midst, and perhaps kill some 
one. The question became, "Was it worth while, for 
what I could make, to take the chances of getting him un- 




THE EAVENNA COLT. 219 

der canvas, and, with a crowd of people around, try to 
subdue Mm there ?" I finally concluded that if the chances 
were great I must make them proportionately advanta- 
geous ; that the very danger and risk implied corresponding 
success. I accordingly announced that if a class of a cer- 
tain number could be raised I would guarantee to make 
the colt as gentle in twenty minutes as any horse, and 
should I fail would refund the money. The number being 
quickly made up, I raised the canvas on one side, and by 
using great care got the colt under without much difficulty. 
But if he was nervous and afraid outside, he was very 
much more so inside. I however succeeded in getting 
near enough to attach a strap to his halter and tie to the 
tail. This done, the case was practically simple and safe ; 
for, notwithstanding he made a heroic struggle, I had him 
so completely in my power that he was helpless so far as 
doing harm. In a short time I was able to take off the 
ropes and force complete submission. This was done 
wholly by the " Second Method." In ten minutes I 
hitched and drove him around without breeching, now en- 
tirely quiet and submissive. I directed the owner to at 
once put him in the team and drive home, and he drove 
off without the least trouble. 

I knew there would be no difficulty in making the colt 
gentle, and stated so positively. The danger and real diffi- 
culty lay in taking him among the people, in a public 
place, for should he get excited he would be liable to tear 
through the canvas with such wild fury that the most 
serious consequences might result. Could the case have 
been treated at home, all this would have been simple and 
easy. The greatest point of interest about the case was 
the ease and quickness with which he was made com- 
pletely gentle, becoming as indifferent to excitement or 
contact with the wagon as an ordinary cart horse j and 



220 KICKING.— ILLUSTEATIVE OASES. 

the simplicity of the treatment by which such a surprising 
change was accomplished made it seem easy for any ordi- 
nary man to do the same. 

The greatest average of cases offered for experiment 
were colts that had become vicious, runaway kickers by 
bad management, and young stallions that had become so 
headstrong and impulsive that they could not be con- 
trolled. Such were the best subjects upon which to illus- 
trate treatment, rarely requiring more than half to three- 
quarters of an hour to make them gentle. The treatment 
for the first-named cases has been so carefully explained 
under different heads that it need not be referred to far- 
ther here. But so little reference has been made to this 
class of stallions that I will, in conclusion, refer to two rep- 
resentative cases. 

Case 10. — Lima Stallion. 

When at Lima, Indiana, a gentleman informed me that 
he had a finely-bred stallion, seven years old, that continu- 
ally got the better of him, and he did not know what to 
do with him. The horse was intelligent and of beautiful 
form, but for want of exercise and proper treatment had 
become so headstrong and impulsive that the owner could 
do nothing with him. " Now," said he, " I do not consider 
myself a fool with horses. I have handled them all my 
life and can drive any common horse as well as the aver- 
age of men 5 but I cannot see how it is possible by any 
reasonable treatment to control such a horse as mine in 
the short time of twenty or thirty minutes, so that he can 
be led by the halter, driven to harness, and near other 
horses and mares without kicking or running away. It is 
contrary to all reason. I would be afraid to undertake to 
lead him out, for I know I could not hold him. Why, he 
has never been harnessed or put in shafts in his life, I 



THE LIMA STALLION. 221 

can see how it might be possible to accomplish this in a 
day or two, but to do so much in so short a time is what 
I cannot understand." 

I give these remarks because they are simply the ex- 
pression of what I almost daily heard from those interested 
in special cases. It seemed difficult to them because they 
did not understand how it could be done. The case was 
simply subjected to Second Method, to which it yielded 
readily. He was then taught to follow with the War 
Bridle, after which he was easily driven as promised. 



a^' 



eg? 



CHAPTER V. 



BAD TO SHOE. 

Like most other habits to which horses are subject, that 
of resisting to have the foot taken up and submitted to re- 
straint for shoeing, is caused by carelessness, or ignorant, 
bad treatment. By the use of a httle patience and tact, it 
is rarely that even very sensitive colts cannot be made to 




Fig. 176.- — As a vicious horse will sometimes act while being shod. 

submit the feet to be handled and pounded upon as de- 
sired ; and once done, unless there is some special cause 
for disturbance, it can always be done. It is true there is 
occasionally a young horse that is naturally so wild and 
vicious as to resist all ordmary good management in the 
effort to take up and handle the feet ; but with our present 
methods of treatment, even these cases submit readily to 
control in a short time, so that the management of even 
the worst of these cases is not at all really difficult. 

(233) 



PALLIATIVE TEEATMEIsTT. 



223 



If a colt of ordinary good character, give a short lesson 
with the First Form of War Bridle, when the feet can he 
taken up without difficulty. The efficiency of this simple 
method of control, in making colts submit to be rode, led, 
or handled, is very remarkable ; and in no respect is it greater 
than in allowing the feet to be taken up and handled. Pull 
right and left sharply a few times with the War Bridle, or 
sufficiently to make the colt come around without being 
pulled upon ; then step back, holding the cord rather tight, 
pass the right hand lightly down the hip and leg to the fet- 
lock, and lift the foot gently ; at the same time, with the 




Fig. 177. — As the horse will stand after treatment. 

left hand, press hard against the hip, so as to throw the 
weight of the body upon the opposite leg, which will enable 
taking up the foot more easily. If sensitive, lift it but a 
few inches at first, and then let it rest again upon the 
ground ; then again sHde the hand lightly down the limb, 
and lift a little higher than before, repeating until in a po- 
sition to rest upon the knees with the gambrel under the 
arm. With the right hand hammer the foot lightly, put it 
down and take it up a few times, then stop and caress. 

This point made, bring the foot gently forward, in po- 
sition as if to clinch down the nails. Should the colt at 
any time jerk or pull the foot away, let go and give a few 



224 . BAD TO SHOE. 

sharp pulls with the cord, and go on as before until the foot 
can be taken up and hammered upon as desired. The op- 
posite foot must be treated in the same way ; then take 
the fore feet. Rest the left hand upon the shoulder, 
pass the right lightly down the limb to the fetlock, and at 
the instant of lifting the foot, as before explained, with the 
other hand press upon the shoulder to throw the weight 
upon the opposite leg, which will relax the near one, and 
make it easy to be taken up. Take up and let down a 
few times, tapping it lightly, and repeat until it can be 
pounded upon quite hard ; then bring forward upon the 
knees, and proceed the same as before. The foot should 
not be held at any time so long, or grasped so awkwardly, 
as to produce fatigue, or frighten so that it would excite 
inclination to pull away. By being careful at first, but lit- 
tle difficulty will be experienced in making any ordinary 
colt submit the feet to be taken up and hammered upon as 
desired. Should the colt be so wild or vicious as to resist 
the War Bridle, subject to Second Method until so dizzy 
and helpless that he stops turning. 

While the head is still tied around, as before, rest one 
hand upon the hip, pass the other quickly from the gam- 
brel down to the fetlock, and lift the foot forward. If sub- 
mitted to, but little more need be done ; but if resisted, 
send around again until helpless, when the effort should be 
repeated. If submitted to, untie the halter and repeat the 
handling. Sometimes, after the head is given freedom and 
the dizziness passes off, the horse may, unexpectedly, kick 
violently. To avoid being struck, stand well forward, and 
far enough out from the hip to be out of range of the foot, 
and, as before, while balancing the body by resting the left 
hand upon the hip, with the right cautiously, but firmly, 
lift the foot forward. Should the horse kick, the hand will 
simply be carried back with the foot without doing harm. 



PALLIATIVE TEEATMENT. 



2^j 



When the foot is freely submitted, step forward to the 
usual position, so as to come well under the hip, bringing 
the foot upon the knees. If in this position he kicks, the 
foot will be simply thrown out and back from the knees, so 
that there will be no danger of accident. If the case is 
still unmanageable or doubtful, put on the Double Draw 
Hitch Form of War Bridle. While an assistant is holding 
the cord (see cut 178), buckle a rein, or tie a cord around 
the foot below the fetlock. Get directly behind, out of 




Fia 178.— Pulling the foot back while controllecl with the War Bridle. 

reach, and pull the foot back. This will usually be re- 
sponded to by a sharp kick, or the foot pulled forward with 
energy. If so, let the War Bridle be jerked upon once or 
twice, as punishment. Repeat the puUing at short inter- 
vals until the foot wUl finally be given back freely, and when 
given freedom, it will be rested upon the toe with the mus- 
cles relaxed. Now step forward to a point a little back of 
the shoulder, with one hand take a short hold of the strap, 
at the same time resting the other upon the horse's back, 
and pull the foot forward repeatedly. Usually this will be 
submitted to ; if so, catch the foot and bring it forward and 

15 



226 



BAD TO SHOE. 



back, to test its flexibility or submission to control. If, 
however, it is resisted, or the control is still doubtful, pass 
the strap over the neck, back between the fore legs, and 
up under the part over the back. Pull short enough to 
bring the leg well forward under the body, and tie into a 
half-hitch. This will bring the weight and pulling of the 
leg directly across the back and neck in a way that disables 
greatly. 

Next, touch or lightly slap the leg until it is submitted 




Fig. 179.— The colt as he will stand after treatment. 

to freely, when more freedom should be given by giving 
loose a little. When freely given to the hand, untie, carry 
the leg back and forward to test it, when take in both 
hands and pound upon it, as before explained. After the 
foot is submitted unconditionally, keep on handling for 
some time, giving apples, etc. The opposite foot must, prac- 
tically, be treated in the same manner, and more or less, 
according to the degree of resistance. 

The blacksmith shop is no place in which to handle 
colts. The fire and hammering add to the general excite- 
ment, and greatly increase the difficulty of making the 



PALLIATIVE TREATMENT. 



227 




Fig. 180. — Simplest method of making a 
nervous horse stand to be shod. 



horse submit the feet. In addition, it is not the black- 
smith's duty to expose himself to be injured or hurt, or to 
lose time in trying to shoe a wild, unbroken colt. Such 
colts should always be han- 
dled at home until proved 
gentle, which, by following 
out the instructions given, 
will not be found a difficult 
task. I have often found 
horses that, in consequence 
of fear or abuse in a black- 1 
smith's shop, could not be 
shod there. I will refer 
here to but one of many 
cases in point. 

During my early experi- 
ence, while at a town in Southern Pennsylvania a horse 
was brought forward for treatment that could not be shod, 
his particular cause of resistance being fear of the black- 
smith's leather apron. 
When first taken to the 
shop for the purpose of 
being shod, the hammer- 
P ing and flying sparks 
^^ greatly excited him, and 
as the smith came forward 
to take up his foot, the ap- 
pearance of his leather 
apron became an object of 
intense fear. In a short 
time he became so violent 
that he would not allow 
any man with one on to approach him. 

The owner and smith concluded they had a sure thing 




Fig. 181. — Blindfolding a nervous horse 
to be shod. 



228 



BAB TO SHOE. 



in this case with which to beat me, and came twelve miles 
for the purpose, leading the horse. They said they would 
both join the class provided I would make the horse suffi- 
ciently gentle to allow a man with a leather apron on to go 
near enough to handle him. At the same time they told 
their friends secretly that I could do nothing with the horse, 
and that they came there for the express purpose of show- 
ing me up as a humbug. All felt so sure that the horse 
would beat me that a large number joined the class to see 




Fig. 183. — As the cord may be adjusted for control of simple casesr 

the fun, expecting of course they would get their money 
back. I subjected the horse quickly to the Second Method 
and War Bridle, not requiring in all more than six or eight 
minutes, when he could be handled without the least diffi- 
culty, being perfectly regardless of the apron. I ordered 
the horse taken to the shop, and accustomed to the sparks 
and hammering ; to be treated kindly, giving apples, etc. ; 
also to be shod a few times outside the shop to make sure 
of his docility. 



PALLIATIVE TEEATMENT. 



229 




Fig. 183. — Simple method of using ttic 

cord for the control of horses 

bad to shoe, harness, etc. 



To show the simplicity of what may appear difficult, it 
is worthy of mention that at the same place, a party of three 
men — a father and two sons — were employed over three 
hours in trying to lead a 
six-year-old colt, pulling, 
pushing, and backing him 
by main force, to the place 
of exhibition, a distance of 
not over one-fourth of a 
mile. The conditions were 
that I must make him fol- 
low me freely across the 
barn floor. A few sharp 
pulls with the War Bridle 
were sufficient to make the 
horse run after me, not re- 
quiring in all more than 
two minutes, proving so conclusively the ignorance and bad 
management of the parties that they were laughed at and 

ridiculed by t h e entire 
class. (See cut 106 ; also 
Case 4, in " Subjection.") 

Confirmed in the Habit. 

As the main object in 
the management of most 
cases is to make them 
submit to be shod with 
the least trouble, I will 
first give the simplest 
treatment for doing so. 
Indeed, this simple treat- 
ment, with a little care, will often be sufficient for the con- 
trol of even very bad cases. 




Fig. 184. — Method of putting on the cord 
when the horse proves very stubborn. 



230 



BAD TO SHOE. 




If the horse is very sensitive and excitable, but natur- 
ally gentle if given his own way (they are usually rangy, 
good-tempered animals until excited or irritated, when they 

become exceedingly obsti- 
nate in their resistance, 
perhaps simply pulling the 
foot away at an unguarded 
or critical moment, kicking 
I or throwing the poor smith 
across the shop), a great 
deal, of course, depends 
upon the good management 
of the sheer, but as much 
on the aid of the owner. 

Fig. 18b.— Sliowing the manner of letting Try the foUowing COUrse : 
up on the cord as the horse submits. -tt^, ,■, . , , . . 

^ When the smith is m posi- 

tion, and ready, his left hand resting on the horse's hip, let 
the owner, or some good, quiet man, catch the horse's ear 
with one hand, squeezing or twisting it a little, with the 
other stroke the nose, or 
grasp the muzzle, and hold 
firmly but gently, at the 
same time talking to the 
horse kindly. If there is 
resistance to this, try blind- 
folding. Tie a blanket, or 
something convenient, over 
the eyes, at the same time 
rubbing the nose, etc. 
With care on the part of 
the sheer, cases that have 
proved very difficult to 
shoe will submit at once to be shod as desired. If these 
expedients fail, put on the cord, the First, or Double Draw 




Fig. 186.— Four-ring Bit. Method 
of pulling down on the cord. 



PALLIATIVE TEEATMENT. 231 

Hitch Form, and make the horse feel its power by giving a 
few sharp pulls right and left. Then step back to the 
hips, pull the head around a little, keeping the cord taut, 
and take up the foot, punishing instantly for any resistance. 
Or, stand to the head, and keep the cord drawn rather 
tight to hold the attention of the horse while an assistant 
takes up the foot. If the horse is very stubborn, bring the 
second turn of the cord over the upper jaw, under the lip. 
This part being very sensitive, a slight pressure hurts so 
severely as to disconcert the horse sufficiently to make him 
submit. Or the cord. Second Form, can be put on, with 
the loop brought over the upper jaw, and pulled suffi- 
ciently taut to force submission. In either case, gradually 
let up as the horse submits. In no case should the cord 
be held tight more than half a minute at a time. 

The four-ring bit properly used will sometimes work 
extremely well in making a horse submit to be shod. The 
bit is put into the mouth with an ordinary head-piece, and 
the strap closely adjusted across the nose. Now tie the 
end of the cord to the near ring, pass it around and tie to 
the opposite one back of the jaw ; then pass over the neck, 
well back, and down behind the jaw, as for Second Form 
of War Bridle. Now by pulling down upon the cord the 
joint of the bit will be forced up against the roof of the 
mouth, which hurts so severely that the horse is at once 
disconcerted, or disabled sufficiently to permit the foot to 
be taken up. The amount of pressure, or force of the pull- 
ing, must be regulated according to the resistance. If there 
is submission in a short time, the lightest pressure wiU be 
sufficient to make the horse stand quietly to be shod. 
There is this to be said about this method of treatment, 
as well as that of the War Bridle : if it works at all, it 
seems to work so well as to leave nothing to be desired. 
But if it fails, the failure will be equally marked, It is. 



232 BAD TO SHOE. 

however, but just to add that though in many cases fail- 
ing, the power of the War Bridle or four-ring bit, when 
properly used, is sometimes wonderful, the horse at once 
submitting unconditionally. 

Tying the head to the tail so as to keep the head bent 
around pretty well, will sometimes make a horse submit to 
be shod, but not often. (See cut 42.) This means, with 
that of putting the cord under the upper lip, which I copy 
below, has been of late so extensively published as an infal- 
lible means of making the most vicious horses stand to be 
shod, ridden, etc., that I think it necessary to give some 
explanation of them here : — 

"Mastering Vicious Horses. 

"Recently an exhibition was given at the corner of Ninth and Howard 
Streets of a new and very simple method of taming vicious horses, which is 
claimed to be superior to any in use. The first trial was with a kicking and 
bucking mare, which, her owner says, has allowed no rider on her back for 
five years. She became tame and gentle in as many minutes, and allowed 
herself to be ridden about without a sign of her former wildness. The means 
by which this result was accomplished consisted of a piece of light rope, which 
was passed around the front jaw of the mare, just above the upper teeth, 
crossed in her mouth, and then secured back of her neck. It is claimed that 
no horse will kick or jump when thus secured, and that a bucking horse, 
after receiving this treatment a few times will abandon his vicious ways for- 
ever. A very simple method was also shown by which a kicking horse can 
be shod. It consisted in connecting the animal's head and tail by means of a 
rope fastened to the tail and then to the bit, and drawn tightly enough to 
incline the horse's head to one side. It is claimed that it is absolutely im- 
possible for a horse to kick on the side of the rope. At the same exhibition 
a horse which for many years had to be bound on the ground to be shod, suf- 
fered the blacksmith to operate on him without attempting to kick, while 
secured in the manner described. " 

This is from the same piece as the Maine man's method 
of breaking a balking horse. (See " Balking.") As I brought 
both these methods of treatment into use, and have had al- 
most unlimited experience with them, I am able to deter- 
mine their value with more accuracy than it is possible for 
inexperienced persons to do. While they will secure the 
control of many, even quite bad cases, as explained, they 
cannot by any means be depended upon for the control of 



PALLIATIVE TBKATMENT. 233 

really difficult cases. They were used by me almost daily 
under circumstances like the following : — 

After subjecting a horse to the Second Method, while 
still tied, the effort would be made to take up the foot ; but 
it was rarely, unless thoroughly subdued, that the foot 
would be submitted. The same is true of the cord or War 
Bridle. It was often a matter of considerable importance, 
to be able to control some cases quickly, and I would, as an 
experiment, try the most simple and direct methods of 
management. I have experimented in this way thou- 
sands of times before, after regular subjective treatment 
with the War Bridle, and cannot regard it as more than pal- 
liative, since it would, in a great many cases, prove entirely 
inefficient. Even with the Double Draw Hitch, its most 
powerful and effective form, which, until recently, we kept 
a secret, and used only as a reserve, we could not de- 
pend upon it. Fifteen years ago the War Bridle was my 
.principal resource for controlling colts and bucking horses 
to ride. But it is entirely inferior to the Second Method 
for the control of bad cases. Simply tying the head to the 
tail, and sending around until dizzy, then mounting from 
the outside, so as not to get entangled by the strap, the 
horse will be found so helpless that he cannot buck ; should 
he attempt it he would simply be carried around the more 
rapidly until submissive. 

The matter of breaking bucking colts ana horses was a 
common, and, sometimes, a very formidable difficulty to 
meet. One of the worst cases I ever came across was a ten- 
year-old mule in Central Mississippi. It was proved ab- 
solutely impossible, even by the restraint of any kind of 
rigging, to mount or keep upon this brute's back. In fact, 
the case was so bad, and the people felt so sure that I could 
not ride her, that they made up a large class for me, know- 
ing they would get their money back if I failed to do so. 



234 BAD TO SHOE. 

I simply subjected her to the Second Method sharply, and 
in less than fifteen minutes rode her as I pleased. This 
would have been impossible by the palliative means re- 
ferred to. She was a good representative of the mustang 
nature. This is the only method of treatment by which a 
strong, determined bucker can be safely and easily mastered. 

It was quite frequently the case that we would have 
for our main subject a horse that was particularly bad in 
shoeing. As a test of success, it would be often required 
that the horse be shod in a blacksmith shop. Now after be- 
ing subjected to regular treatment there would usually be 
but little trouble in taking up and hammering upon the feet 
as much as desired at the place of treatment; while we 
would sometimes have all we could do, even by the most 
severe use of the War Bridle, to handle such in the shop. 
I will refer here to one case in point out of many hundreds 
that could be mentioned : — 

When at Taunton, Mass., the only subject for treatment 
was a very bad horse to shoe. The case submitted readily 
to the Third Method. The class insisted, as a condition of 
being satisfied, that the horse should be shod next day at 
the blacksmith shop. I had a very large class at this place, 
and a failure m doing this would have given them sufficient 
reason to demand a return of their money. There was no 
opportunity for me to handle the horse in private, as the 
class took particular care that I should not have access to 
him in the meantime. Notwithstanding the Double Draw 
Hitch was used upon him to the utmost of what ^ could be 
done with it, we barely succeeded in making him submit to 
be shod there. 

Before leaving New York, (referred to in "Personal Ex- 
perience") Mr. Wilkins, the owner of the horse subdued as 
a special test, called upon me and requested me to assist 
Jiim in having the horse shod, stating that he had become en- 



PALLIATIVE TKEATMENT. 235 

tirely unmanageable in this respect. The special point of 
this horse's peculiarity was in his obstinacy of resistance. 
When he once found he could resist his foot's being taken 
up, he would afterward fight at every attempt to take it 
up, kicking back, and striking the ground with all the force 
of a sledge hammer. 

I depended upon the Second and Third Methods for 
the subjection of this case, which required a little more than 
half an hour to effect his entire submission. I told the 
owner, who was a good horseman, that he ought to be able 
to make him stand to be shod by the aid of the War Bridle, 
as the horse, after being treated by me, had remained per- 
fectly gentle up to this time. 

Said he, "I tried it, and failed ; I would like to see you 
do it." Upon trial, though I used the cord to the utmost 
limit of its power, I was barely able to make him stand to 
be shod, — a point not at all dif&cult by the regular subject- 
ive treatment. It was, in fact, a very common occurrence 
for me to find old scholars, and others who had indirectly 
learned, and become practiced in, the use of some special 
method of control long practiced and taught by me, claim- 
ing to be able to control any living horse by it, whether 
balky, a kicker, or bad to shoe, etc. 

Shoers who had used the War Bridle with success were 
the most common. In proof of their ability to do this, ref_ 
erence would be made to some special case which they had 
easily shod that had before proved unmanageable. This 
success would inspire such confidence in the method that 
they would honestly think themselves able to control any 
horse, however bad he might be. 

I will refer to an incident in point : When in Buffalo, 
N. Y., in 1869, where I had been detained for some time 
on business, a well known veterinary surgeon. Dr. Wm. 
^omerville, 27 Erie street, informed me that there was a 



236 BAD TO SHOE. 

young horse-shoer near there who claimed to have a secret 
by which he could make any horse, no matter how vicious, 
stand gently to be shod. I stated that it could not be done ; 
that the man had undoubtedly learned some simple method 
of control which gave him power to shoe many quite bad 
cases ; but that really bad cases could not be controlled by 
any such treatment. It was arranged that I should be ad- 
vised when the man had a bad case to shoe. Upon being 
notified, I called, and stated to the man that if he had any 
point which I did not understand, by which he could make 
a horse stand to be shod better and easier than I was able 
to do, I would give him $100 for the secret. His control 
was obtained by the four-ring bit, which was nothing new 
to me. I told him that his over-confidence would cause 
him trouble when he chanced to get a really bad case to 
shoe, and was not surprised when soon afterward informed 
by the Dr. that in trying to shoe a bad horse the man got 
kicked across the shop, and was seriously hurt. It was con- 
sidered a good joke upon the man, as the result was just as 
I predicted. 

A great many other jDalliative means might be men- 
tioned ; such as tying a rope or rein to the foot and passing 
it back through a ring attached to the tail, so that 
the foot can be pulled back and held up. But should 
the horse resist very hard, there is danger by this 
method of the horse's being seriously strained or injured. 
Another method is to buckle a strap around the foot be- 
low the fetlock, and around the leg above the gambrel, 
which keeps it flexed. This is also objectionable because 
of the severe struggle to resist restraint, and the danger of 
falling. 



SUBJECTIYB TREATMENT. 237 

Regular Subjective Treatment. 

In breaking up the habit, very much depends upon the 
disposition of the horse, and the treatment pursued. In. 
most cases the following will be found easy and effectual : 
Subject to the Third Method, using more or less pressure, 
according to the case. While the cord is on, attach a 
strap or rein to the hind foot, and pull back as previously 
explained. At first there will usually be great resistance, 
the horse kicking with great spitefulness, or pulling the 
foot forward energetically. But however much he may 
resist at first, it is no indication of failure. Simply keep 
pulling the foot back at short intervals until there is no re- 
sistance. When given freedom, it will be rested upon the 
toe, then pull forward and back as before explained. In 
some cases it may be necessary to tie forward by bringing 
the strap over the neck, back between the legs, and making 
fast to hold the foot firmly until all resistance is overcome. 
Treat the opposite foot in the same manner. 

All this should not require more than ten or twenty 
minutes. Should the horse warm up and resist it deter- 
minedly, increase the pressure and repeat. In some very 
rare cases I have been compelled to use the pressure of a 
hundred feet of cord before succeeding. It is well to state 
that some of these cases were among the most desperately 
vicious horses to be found. It was not unusual for the 
writer to find horses that it was impossible to shoe except 
by tying down or fastening in a frame. If in traveling 
there were any such cases anywhere within the radius of 
his visit, they were almost sure to be brought forward with 
the hope of beating ; but it was rarely they would not sub- 
mit unconditionally in from twenty to thirty minutes by 
the treatment given. 

To give an idea of the power of this treatment when 



238 BAD TO SHOE. 

properly applied, I will refer to its effects upon a few 
special cases. 

At Bellows Falls, Vt., a paper-maker owned a fine 
horse, which, though otherwise very gentle, was extremely 
hard to shoe. A traveling horseman of much experience 
and a great deal of pretension, visited the place and made 
a small class. The owner, wishing to have his horse 
broken, brought him in to be experimented upon. Ac- 
cording to the gentleman's statement to me, this man 




Fig. 187. — Pulling the foot back to test the horse's submission. 

worked with the horse about half a day, injuring him 
very severely, — in the owner's language, "almost killed 
him." The result of it all was that the horse beat the 
man completely, and was more reckless and determined in 
his opposition than before. I requested the gentleman to 
let me see the horse. Upon examination, I found him to be 
finely bred, naturally gentle, but if excited or badly man- 
aged he would be extremely difficult to control. I told 
the owner we would have no difficulty at all with the 
horse, and succeeded in rendering him perfectly gentle in 
about fifteen minutes. 



SUBJECTIVE TEEATMBNT. 



239 



The day following, at the next point we found an 
eight-year old mare, considered impossible to shoe. The 
temperament being suitable, we subjected her to Second 
Method and War Bridle, which made her entirely submis- 
sive in about ten minutes. The next day, at Putney, 
Vt., the kicking, runaway horse referred to as Case No. 1, 
in chapter on "Kicking," Illustrative Cases, was presented. 
Reference is made to these consecutive cases to show the 
frequency with which exceptionally vicious horses were 




Fig. 188. — As the foot will be rested upon the ground after submitting. 

brought for experiment and the success in their subjection. 
In the management of many cases, either or both the 
First and Second Methods may be used with advantage in 
connection with the Third Method, but it should always 
be done at home where there is time and privacy to apply 
and carry out the treatment properly. 



Leaning Over. 

There are occasionally horses that will allow the foot 
to be taken up, but will lie down or lean over upon the 



240 BAD TO SHOE. 

blacksmith while it is held. Usually a sharp lesson with 
the War Bridle, repeating it for each recurrence of ly- 
ing over, until he learns to stand without leaning, will he 
sufficient. If this is resisted, subject to Second Method. 
While the head is tied around, take up the foot and test 
until he will stand squarely. If there is any inclination 
to lean over after the head is given freedom, punish with 
the cord, which should be sufficient. Sometimes it is ad- 
visable to stand at the head ready to punish, while an as- 
sistant takes up and holds the foot as if to shoe. Though 
a horse may for some time be sullen and persistent in lean- 
ing over, it is not usually a difficult habit to overcome. 
Once compelled to stand, it is seldom necessary to repeat 
the lesson. 

It should have been stated in the proper place that there 
must be no effort to push against the quarters ; but the 
moment there is an effort to lean over, the foot should be 
instantly dropped, and the punishment with .the War Bri- 
dle made somewhat severe, which is to be repeated until 
there is submission, or subject to Second Method, as ex- 
plained, which should in all cases result in breaking up the 
habit. 




CHAPTER ri. 



BALKING. 



If a naturally gentle horse be hitched to a tree or other 
immovable object and commanded to pull, he would at first 
pull all he could ; the second time he would not pull with 
quite so much confidence as at first ; while the third or 




Fig, 189. — As the horse will sometimes stand, regardless of the 
most severe whipping. 

fourth time he would pull but little, or perhaps not at all. 
To whip and urge him now to pull would only start him in 
the habit of balking. Or, if a horse is overloaded or so 
exhausted he cannot pull the load, and in this condition is 
whipped and urged to go, he will balk. Or, if he starts 
too quickly, and is pulled back violently and whipped till 

16 (341) 



242 BALKING. 

confused and excited, the habit of balking is begun. 
Hence we see that this habit is purely acquired, the same 
as kicking and other habits, for which there can hardly be 
a reasonable excuse. 

Balking horses are of two kinds : Double balkers and 
single balkers. Balkers in single harness are divided into 
two classes : First, horses that sulkily refuse to go at all ; 
second, those that will not pull unless given their own 
way. The mule and ox, and horses having similarly pa- 
tient, cold-blooded natures, have little inclination to this 
habit, while nervous, warm-blooded, fine-grained horses are 
easily taught the habit. 

In teaching a colt to drive without balking, let him go 
slowly at first and as he pleases. There should be suffi- 
cient room so as not to require short turns ; as pulling 
short around before learning to rein is liable to confuse and 
irritate him to balk. If there appears any inclination to 
stop, or if he refuses to go, the driver should sit quietly in 
the wagon, fix the harness, or do anything to take up time 
until the horse gets over his fret. If he does not feel sure 
of his going, let him get out and move the colt a little to 
the right or left, speak to him kindly, and it is rarely that 
he will not move off" without knowing that he has balked. 
If he has an irritable disposition, and appears unwilling to 
stand, particular care should be taken to teach him thor- 
oughly the lesson of stopping and starting, as described 
under the head of Colt Training. If the habit is only par- 
tially learned, and especially if the colt is of a warm- 
blooded nature, it is by all means advisable to win him out 
of the habit by kind treatment, if possible. I will illus- 
trate by referring to a peculiar case in my early expe- 
rience : — 

When in Myersburg, Pa., referred to in " Personal Ex- 
perience," I often traded horses, and not unfrequently got 



BALKING SIKGLB. £4S 

very bad ones. Among them was a small pony mare, nine 
years old, — a confirmed balker. This I did not know until 
after I had traded for her. I harnessed her carefully in 
shafts, but she stood stubbornly. Upon touching her with 
a whip, she threw herself down. I saw at once that she 
was one of the very worst of balkers, and that in the effort 
to break her she had been subjected to a great deal of 
whipping and abuse. I unhitched her, got her up, tied up 
the harness and reins, went into an orchard close by and 
filled my pockets with apples. I then led her to a back 
road not much used, and standing near her head with a 
switch in my hand, touched her lightly over the hips, say- 
ing, " Get up ! " This caused her to start. After going a 
few steps, I called, "Whoa ! " at the same time pulled upon 
the reins, when she stopped, for which I gave her a piece 
of apple, and stroked her nose and head. This I repeated 
until she would start and stop at command. 

This point gained, I next untied the reins, and while 
standing at the shoulder and holding the reins slack in my 
hands, I repeated the command for starting, touching her 
for a few times lightly over the hips. At each repetition 
I stood a little farther back until able to get directly be- 
hind her, and make her go or stop at command. I then 
took her to the top of the hill and hitched her up. This 
was the critical point of the experiment, and I did not pro- 
pose to take any chances of failure. I commenced again 
at her head, rewarding as before, until I was able to get 
on the step, and finally into the wagon ; at each repetition 
being careful to reward her, even getting out of the wagon 
to do so. It was soon quite amusing to see how eagerly 
she would reach round her head in anticipation of her re- 
ward. Now I required her to go a little farther at each 
time of starting until able to drive fifteen or twenty rods ; 
then I took her out of harness^ and put her in the stable. 



^44 



iBALItlNG. 



The next day I hitched her up a2;ain, and comtnenced 
cautiously as before, spending only a few minutes, but re- 
quiring her to go farther and faster until on a sharp trot 
or run, I repeated this lesson again next day until she 
could be driven as desired. The point of success was that 
I made the lessons short, and was careful not -to do more at 
a time than she would bear. I could even make her stop 

in a mud-hole and stand as 
long as I wished her to, and 
then at command she would 
pull out gently. Those who 
knew the mare were quite 
surprised to see me drive 
her, and regarded it a great 
feat. In reality it was no 
feat at all, but merely the 
result of a little patient 
management, which it is not 
difficult for any one to prac- 
tice. This mode of treat- 
ment is especially adapted to nervous horses that will not 
bear pushing. 

There is nothing that so tries a man's temper and pa- 
tience as a sullen balker. One may resolve to be patient, 
but after reasonable efforts with kind treatment, and fail- 
ing, he determines to see what a whip will do. Some men 
in anger will strike a horse over the ears, twist and pull 
his tongue severely, and yet not be able to make the ani- 
mal flinch. A balking horse of spirit, thoroughly maddened 
by such treatment, may resist the most severe punishment. 
Horses have been known, when excited in this way, to 
sullenly stand even the burning of straw under them. 
The skin on the legs and body is so thick, and has so little 
sensibility, th^t when the blood is thoroughly warmed up, 




Fig. 190. —Slow, patient nature- 
disposed to balk. 



-not 



PALLIATIVE TEEATMENT. 245 

the severest whipping or pounding can be scarcely felt, and 
it becomes only a means of intensifying the habit. The 
usual method of whipping, kicking the belly, hitting back 
of the head with a club, etc., while often liable to kill or 
seriously injure the horse, has no beneficial effect. 

Sometimes very simple treatment will start a balky 
horse ; as, kicking the leg lightly below the knee until he 
lifts his foot ; passing a string over one of his ears, and ty- 
ing it down; letting the horse inhale a little ammonia or red 
pepper. These are very common tricks, and will some- 
times disconcert a horse sufficiently to cause him to start. 
The following has been considered a great secret in the 
treatment of balkers, and will in some cases work with 
considerable success : Take the oslets or warts growing in- 
side a horse's leg, dry and grate them fine and keep in a 
tightly-corked bottle, as they lose their strength quickly 
and evaporate on being exposed to the air. About three- 
quarters of an hour before the horse is to be driven, blow a 
thimbleful from a quill into his nostrils. This has a 
soothing effect, and will cause the horse to go off" all right. 

An old man who had been a successful horse-breaker, 
told me that he had used it forty years, and never failed 
to make a horse go as he desired with it ; that he seldom 
repeated it more than two or three times. When a horse 
takes a dislike to other horses and kicks at them, the os- 
lets from a vigorous horse, or from the one objected to, 
used as above, will in most cases overcome such aversion. 
(See Medicine in " Subjection.") 

Sometimes stepping before a horse and moving him to 
the right or left a little, and stroking his nose, or pulling 
his ears gently, etc., will cause him to start. Grasping 
both nostrils with the hand to prevent his breathing until 
he struggles for freedom, and turning him a little sideways 
at the instant of letting go, will frequently start quite a 



246 BALKING. 

bad horse. Tying the tail to the cross-piece will fre- 
quently start him, as a horse will always pull by the tail. 
Blindfolding is one of the simplest and best methods of 
starting a stubborn balker. After being blindfolded, he 
should be allowed to stand a few minutes, then move him 
right and left a few times, say, encouragingly. Get up, and 
the horse will usually pull steadily against the collar and 
move off all right. Tying up the fore leg, and compelling 
him to stand on three legs till tired, will usually be a very 
effectual means of starting a balker, and frequently after a 
few repetitions it will break up the habit. This method 
works best on nervous, impulsive horses. 

A Maine Man's Method. 

" When a horse balks, take him out of the shafts, tie 
the bridle rein into the tail short enough to bring his body 
into a half circle, and make him go around four or five 
times. This will make him dizzy ; then put him in shafts 
and he will go off all right. If one lesson will not break 
him, repeating it will be sure to do so." 

This is not so ; it is nothing more than merely pallia- 
tive, which will, it is true, frequently enable starting a balk- 
ing horse, but is not by any means adequate for breaking up 
the habit. It will be seen farther on that it is part of my 
regular treatment for this habit. I invented it and taught 
it in that State nearly twenty years ago ; and the idea of 
managing balky horses in this way was given by me as a 
simple method of starting the horse, not of breaking up the 
habit. 

A mare in the habit of balking, although occasionally 
driving well for weeks at a time, one day got into one of 
her balking tantrums. Her owner, becoming angry, de- 
termined to kiU her. Taking a gun from the hands of a 
sportsman who happened to be standing near, he fired the 



PALLIATIVE TEEATMENT. 247 

charge of shot into the body. It did not kill her, and on 
recovering, she was put to work as usuaL It was found 
afterward that whenever she balked, simply pointing a 
stick at her was sufficient to make her start at once. 

A horse employed in drawing limestone to a kiln from 
a quarry close by, was in the habit of balking. One day 
he refused to pull, and, in defiance of the strength of 
several men who caught and held the wheels to prevent the 
accident, backed over the precipice, falling about thirty 
feet. The cart was broken to pieces, but the horse escaped 
with slight injury. He was put to work as usual, but was 
never known to balk there afterward. 

About ■ ten years ago a member of my class gave me 
the following particulars of a case : He had a mare that 
would sometimes work well for a week, and then, perhaps, 
at a critical time would stand stubbornly, resisting all 
effort to move her. One day while, drawing in oats she 
balked. After working with her a long while, he resolved 
that she should go or starve. He drove a stake down in 
the ground, and tied her to it; then putting a sheaf of 
oats a few rods distant he went off. This was at ten 
o'clock in the morning. About five o'clock, he returned 
and tried to start her, but she would not go. He tied her 
again to the post, and let her stand until morning. Then 
he unhitched her, took the reins and tried to start her, but 
she would not pull. During the afternoon, he tried her 
again, when she went. Upon reaching the sheaf of oats, he 
let her eat it. He now drove her home, unharnessed and 
fed her, then put her to work. She worked all right for a 
few days, and then balked again. This time he let her 
stand forty-eight hours, then fed her, when upon trial, 
she went all right, and he kept her at work. She never 
balked afterward. 

Another man of much tact with horses informed me 



248 BALKING. 

that he always succeeded with balkers by the following 
treatment : When a horse balked, he unhitched and put 
him in the stall, and stationed a man behind him with a 
whip. Every minute or two the man tapped the horse 
on the quarters with the whip, just enough to annoy him. 
This was kept up for twenty-four hours, the regular feed 
and water being given. If he refused to go upon being 
tried, he was put back, and the same treatment kept up to 
prevent his going to sleep, until he would go as desired. 
It was rarely, after one or two lessons of this treatment, 
that a horse would not work in all right. Innumerable in- 
stances of breaking very bad horses in this way have been 
brought to my notice by horsemen who have been members 
of my classes. 

It does no good, practically, to subject a horse to treat- 
ment in a barn, or where not accustomed to balk. It should 
be carried out as nearly as possible where in the habit of 
resisting. Any means that will disconcert a horse when 
he balks is a step in the right direction. But if we have 
in addition power to move him as we wish, we have the 
key of compelling the entire submission of balkers that have 
defied the greatest efforts to break or drive them. This 
we can obtain by the Second Method, and other treatment 
here given. 

Regular Treatment. 

The course I usually pursue, and which I advise, is 
about as foUows : Put into the wagon, ready for use, a 
good strap halter, a War Bridle, a light bow whip that will 
not break, and some good apples. Hitch up the horse as 
if to make a journey, and let him go as he pleases until a 
level, isolated piece of road is reached. Now if he does 
not balk, provoke him to do so. Get out quietly, unhitch 
him, tie up the reins and tugs, put on the halter, over the 



EEGULAE TREATMENT. 249 

bridle, and subject him to Second Method both ways until 
off his balance. If hitched up now, he will be likely to go 
off all right, but will be apt to balk at some future time. 
As the object should be to effectually break up the habit, 
it is necessary to make the lesson very thorough. 

This treatment makes a powerful impression upon him 
in two ways : First, to convince him that there is power to 
make him move any way desired, which is the point to be 
established, as he does not know the difference between 
going sideways and straight ahead. Second, it disconcerts 
him in the most powerful manner, and thus prevents or 
overcomes the inclination to resistance. But it is also nec- 
essary to -create sufficient reserve power to force him to 
move should he again refuse to go. To do this, put on the 
War Bridle (First, or Double Draw Hitch Form), and lift 
him right and left. When he follows promptly, change to 
Second Form. Now pull upon him sideways and ahead. 
As he yields, gradually pull more on a line with the body 
until he will come ahead promptly. 

Next, tie up the cord loosely in the terret, take down 
the reins, run them through the shaft-lugs, and get directly 
behind. Say, " Get up ! " pulHng one rein a little, and, if 
necessary, touch the quarters sharply with the whip. Af- 
ter going a short distance, call, " Whoa ! " If he does not 
stop, force him to do so by a sharp jerk of the reins. Re- 
peat this until he will stop and start at command, then re- 
ward by giving some apple. Repeat the driving, stopping, 
and starting, until he works in all right and is over the ex- 
citement of the treatment, then hitch to a wagon, when will 
come the real test. Stand near, and in a low, gentle tone, 
say, " Get up ! " and repeat the starting, stopping and re- 
warding, as before, until he will go as desired. If a very 
bad case, it is necessary to make the impression as thorough 
and complete as possible, and it would be best to put him 



250 . BALKIJ^G. 

away until the next day, when he should be tried, and, so 
far as found necessary, the treatment repeated until under 
good control. 

Although the horse may go a few times as commanded, 
yet, after hitching to a wagon, he may balk again. If so, 
take down the cord, stand in front of him — a little to the 
right or left — and give a sharp jerk, repeating until he will 
go at command. Should this be resisted, which is not at 
all improbable, repeat the previous course of treatment, 
which, in some cases, may be supplemented by the other 
methods of treatment. It is advisable to test the horse 
hard before putting to regular work. A great point after 
the coercive treatment, is to win his confidence by giving 
apples, etc. 

Restless Balkers. 

If, when a young horse is hitched to a wagon, he is al- 
lowed to start as he pleases a few times, he is liable to ac- 
quire the habit of becoming impatient, so that as soon as 
hitched up, if not allowed to go his own way, he may get 
mad and balk. Or if whipped to start quickly, and then 
pulled back upon, or if made to stand too long while getting 
into or out of a wagon, he wiU acquire the habit of balking. 
A short lesson in teaching to start and stop, as directed in 
"Colt Training," would prevent this. As it is a very com- 
mon as weU as annoying form of balking, I will include the 
details of a simple treatment, which can be easily practiced 
by any one : — 

First, teach the horse to stand with the harness on, as 
explained to stand with the Breaking Bit ; then tie up the 
reins, give a good sharp lesson with the War Bridle, and 
put him in shafts. If he balks, overcome it with the War 
Bridle. If of a quick, nervous disposition, this treatment 
should be sufficient ; but if of a decidedly resolute, plucky 



EESTLESS BALKEES. 251 

character, regular coercive treatment by Second Method, 
etc., may be necessary. But as there is usually little in- 
clination among owners to resort to coercive treatment, for 
the benefit of such I include the details of simple, winning 
treatment : — 

Before putting the horse into shafts, adjust the harness. 
Get directly behind, with an ordinary carriage whip touch 
the hips lightly, and say, sharply, " Get up ! " After going 
a short distance, call, " Whoa ! " and pull lightly upon the 
reins to make him stop. When there is prompt obedience, 
give a little apple, etc. Continue driving and stopping un- 
til a good foundation is made for the next step. Next, 
turn the carriage to face a barn or high fence, and quietly 
hitch the horse in ; then go to his head, caress, talk to him, 
and give some apple. Be in no hurry, but hold his atten- 
tion in this way several minutes. When you want him to 
move, walk ahead a little and say, " Get up ! " or " Come!" 
After going a few steps, stop and repeat the reward- 
ing. 

There will be less inclination to rush ahead when a barn 
or high fence is in front, and you are standing directly be- 
fore him. In addition to this, his attention is attracted by 
the apples. In this way repeat until the obstruction is 
reached, when it will be easy to turn or back short around. 
Gradually get back opposite his head and shoulders, with 
each repetition going farther back till the wheel is reached, 
when mount the step and get into the wagon. Repeat this 
until the horse is obedient to wait for the driver to get in, 
stopping and starting as desired. Now drive farther, and 
take some one in with you as if to make a journey. First, 
drive where the horse is least likely to resist, but finally in 
front of the house, or other place, where there has been 
most trouble. The hitching and unhitching should be re- 
peated, and his attention held as before with apples, etc., 



252 . BALKING. 

in the meantime talking, walking around, and rattling the 
wagon. A little care should be used, especially after idle 
spells, to hold the attention by giving apples, etc., or have 
some one stand at his head and talk to him, but not to take 
up the reins until able to start. If in a barn, keep the door 
shut until ready to start. 

Balking Double. 

When a horse throws himself in the breeching sullenly, 
with his head over the other horse's neck, as if to say, 
" Make me go if you can ! " it will try a man's patience very 
much, and unless he knows how to overcome the difficulty, 
he will be likely to retaliate by kicking, pounding, etc., 
which is likely to do more harm than good. Many 
horses are led into this habit by badly fitting collars, that 
either choke or make the shoulders so sore that it becomes 
painful to push steadily or firmly. 

When hitched to a load, care should be used to prevent 
pulling so hard and long at a time as to get out of breath. 
Neither should a stop be made in a soft place, or where a 
steady, heavy pull to start will be required. The team 
should be kept fresh, and encouraged by stopping often and 
giving the horses a chance to recover breath. In pulling 
up hill or very steep places, a good rest should be given be- 
fore starting. If one or both horses become confused, and 
balk, let them stand until they recover fully. Then stand 
in front, take both by the head, and move them to the right 
or left. It is sometimes advisable to turn them both ways. 
When you get them to move together, say gently and en- 
couragingly, " Come, boys ! " or any word to which they are 
accustomed. Much depends upon the skill of the driver 
in bringing them up against the collar with assurance, and 
in helping them to break the force of the dead puU h\ start- 
ing, by moving partly sideways. If the wheels are sunk 



BALKING DOUBLE. 



25S 




254 BALKING. 

• 

in the mud, and the power and willingness of the horses 
to pull out is doubtful, a part of the load should be thrown 
off; better do this than run the risk of spoiling the team. 

Horses compelled to pull hard should not be checked 
up. Let the head have full freedom. Sometimes a horse 
is so stubborn that he will not go, even when not required 
to pull any load. Always be governed by circumstances, 
such as the horse's disposition and the difficulty to be en- 
countered. If of a sensitive, nervous disposition, try either 
of the following tricks, which in many cases will work A^ery 
nicely : First, tie a strap or cord to the end of the tail, 
bring it forward between the legs and attach it to the hame 
ring of the gentle horse, or to the end of the pole. Tie it 
so short that unless the horse will come forward promptly 
to his place, he will be pulled upon sharply. Or double a 
piece of cord (that used for War Bridle is best), pass the 
tail through the center, and twist the ends of the cord 
three or four times and tie to the hame ring of the gentle 
horse, or to the end of the pole. Or, again, a noose may 
be formed of a small chain or rope around the body back of 
the shoulders, and tied to the end of the wagon tongue. 
Now when the gentle horse is made to start, the pull be- 
comes so severe that it startles and disconcerts the balky 
horse from his purpose, and compels him to go ahead. 

After adjusting either of these rigs, start the gentle 
horse quickly so as to make a sharp pull upon the balker, 
which will surprise and force him to jump ahead. After a 
few repetitions, he will jump ahead to avoid being hurt. 
If the cord under the tail causes the horse to kick, it should 
not be used. 

Best Treatment. 

First, put on (under the ordinary bridle) the Second 
Form of War Bridle, bring it under the head-piece, and, as 



BEST TEEATMENT. 255 

in the case of balkers in single harness, pull sideways and 
ahead, slowly repeating until the horse comes freely with- 
out restraint. This lesson should he made very thorough. 

To prevent chafing or cutting the hands, gloves should 
be worn, or the cord may be wound around a piece of 
broom handle or other stick with which to pull upon. This 
done, get a stiff pole or sapling about three or four inches 
in diameter, and about ten feet in length, or so long that it 
will extend about thirty inches beyond the horse's nose. 
Bore a hole about two inches from each end, and fasten the 
large end of the pole to the inside end of the gentle horse's 
singletree. When the horses are hitched up, pass the War 
Bridle through the hole at the other end of the pole, and 
draw it short enough so that when the horse is up in his 
place there will be little, if any, restraint upon him, and 
make fast. Next, pass a cord under the pole from one 
hame ring to the other, making both ends fast, and leaving 
it just long enough so that when both horses are in their 
natural positions, there will be no slack. Then pass another 
cord around the pole and tie both ends into the gentle horse's 
hame ring, regulating the length so it will hold the pole 
over the wagon tongue in position. Or have a ring made 
about one-half to three-fourths of an inch larger than the 
pole. Attach a cord or strap to connect this ring with the 
hame rings on each side. This holds the pole in position 
over the wagon-tongue, and is a better way than the first, 
but more troublesome to make. 

If there are stay chains on the doubletree, they should 
be removed, so as to give it free play. Get into the wagon 
(there should be no load) and start the gentle horse quickly. 
The balker of course refuses to go. The instant the gentle 
horse starts ahead, if the adjustment is properly arranged, 
his whole power is brought directly upon the balky horse's 
head, compelling him to start. Finding he must go, it will 



2oG BALKING^. 

usually be but a very few minutes' work to make him sO 
afraid of being pulled upon and hurt, that he will be the 
first to start at the command. This accomplished, put on 
a little loading, gradually increasing it until he learns to 
use his strength rehably . To fix the impression thoroughly, 
it may be necessary to keep the pole on a few days. 

The Patent Bridle will be found to work very nicely in 
the management of these cases. The reins are simply re- 
versed", so as to pull ahead instead of back, and tied to the 
end of the pole. 

Overloading. 

There is a general inclination among teamsters to over- 
load. This is very common in large cities. While engaged 
in making illustrations for this work in New York City, I 
daily passed through Fulton and other streets, and fre- 
quently took a side street to avoid witnessing the abuse 
to which horses were subjected in consequence of being 
overloaded. It was no unusual thing to see a team 
whipped severely while pulling to their utmost power, and 
finally compelled to stop for want of strength to go farther. 
The team never should be compelled to draw more than it 
is able to pull easily over the worst parts of the road. This 
should be the rule. The strain, and pulling in this way, 
will sometimes injure a horse more in a few minutes than 
working reasonably hard all day. 

When a horse is unaccustomed to work before a wagon 
•or plow, is unsteady and easily irritated, especially in plow- 
ing, it is advisable to let him go around a few times before 
putting the plow into the ground. A little patience at the 
beginning, in this way, will frequently enable working a 
horse in gentle that would otherwise be easily spoiled. 
The following advice is so good, and so much in point, that 
I include it here : — 



OYERLOADING. 257 



"Advice to Teamsters. 

"The 'Friends of the Horse ' in Boston have issued a circular in re- 
gard to the treatment of that animal, which is indorsed by many of the most 
prominent veterinary surgeons of New York and Boston. The following 
hints should be heeded by drivers everywhere : — 

' ' First, a man should see that good care is taken of his horse in the stable 
by being w ell fed with wholesome food, of cracked corn and oats, with plenty 
of good hay. Potatoes or carrots may be given once or twice a week to good 
advantage. See that he is kept clean, warm, and comfortable, with plenty 
of bedding. A piece of rock salt should always be left in the manger. 

"Second, he should see that his harness is kept soft and clean, particu- 
larly the inside of the collar, which ought always to be smooth, as the per- 
spiration, when dry, causes irritation, and is liable to produce galls on the 
shoulder. The collar should fit closely, Avitli space enough at the bottom to 
admit a man's hand. If too large, it has the bad effect of drawing the shoul- 
ders together. On no consideration should a team, or any work-horse, be 
compelled to wear a martingale, as it draws the head down, and prevents him 
from getting into an easy and natural position. The check rein may be used, 
but only tight enough to keep the head in a natural position, and it should 
never be wound around the hames. See that the hames are buckled tight 
enough at the top to bring the draught irons near the center of the collar. 
If too low, it not only interferes with the action of the shoulder, but gives the 
collar an uneven bearing. Caution should be taken that the girth is not 
buckled too tight, particularly on string teams, for when the traces are 
straightening it has the tendency to draw the girth against the belly and dis- 
tress the horse . 

"Third, see that the horse is well shod with a good stiJB" shoe, always 
calked at toe and heel on the hind feet, as it is there where all the propell- 
ing power comes from when heavily loaded. Keep the feet good and strong 
by not allowing them to be cut away too much by the blacksmith. 

"Fourth, the best of judgment should be used in loading, taking into 
consideration the condition of the street and the distance to be traveled. 
Never overload, for by so doing you only distress, strain, and discourage 
your horse, and do him more injury than you can possibly gain by carrying 
the extra load. When your load is hard to pull, stop often and give your 
horses a chance to breathe. No good driver will ever resort to the cruel 
practice of whipping or beating his horse. A light whip may be carried, but 
there is seldom use for it. Much more can be accomplished by kind treat- 
ment and good judgment. Remember the horse is a very intelligent, proud, 
sensitive, noble animal, the most useful known to men, and is deserving of 
the greatest kindness. As many horses have suffered from bad example and 
inexperienced drivers^ the above advice is offered. " 

This metliod of treatment makes the breaking of double 
balkers a very simple and easy thing to do. It gives 
power to force the horse into obedience without danger or 
cruelty. I will refer to a few cases, showing the ease with 
which horses of this character can be broken by the treat- 
ment given. 17 



258 BALKIN(J. 

Case No. 1. — At Great Barrington, Mass., an Irishman 
proposed to join my class and pay a double tuition fee, if 
I would break his horse of balking. I told him if he would 
join the class I would teach him the principle, and if he 
could not make his horse work perfectly gentle when he 
went home that evoning, he could so report next day at 
West Stockbridge, where I was engaged to lecture, and I 
would return his money. He was extremely suspicious 
and incredulous as to my terms, but finally joined the class. 
The following day he was at the next town, so well pleased 
that he stated publicly to his friends, that in ten minutes 
he was able to make the balky horse work as well as the 
gentle one, and that he could indorse all my statements. 

Case No. 2. — At Brunswick, Maine, a man introduced 
himself to me, and stated that he teamed for a living; 
that his whole property was in his horses ; that one of them 
balked, making his team worthless ; that his only object 
in going into the class was to break this horse of the 
habit. 

I assured him that I would put him in the way of break- 
ing his horse without difficulty ; and that if he could not 
make his horse work and pull as desired when he went 
home in the afternoon, on the following morning he could 
come to me and get his money back. Next day he stated 
that in less than ten minutes he was able to make this 
horse work just as well as the other. 

Case No. 3. — When in Northern New York, in 1876, a 
man introduced himself to me as an old scholar, who had 
attended my lectures a few years before, and desired to 
come into my class again. He said that he had not had occa- 
sion to make any use of the instructions until about a year 
before, when, in plowing, one of his horses balked. He 
was for some time puzzled to know what to do, when it 
occurred to him to try this method of treatment. He had 



ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. 259 

forgotten the details, but remembered the general plan. 
He took a three-fourths inch rope, and put it on the Secon(3 
Form of War Bridle, as described for balking. He next 
took a rail from the fence, and tied one end to the gentle 
horse's singletree ; to the other end he attached the rope. 
He then started the gentle horse, and jerked the balky 
horse out of his tracks two or three times. Using his own 
language, " That 'ere horse did n't wait to be pulled "upon 
the second time, but pulled as if for life, and never offered 
to balk afterward, though I put the plow down to the 
beam." 

It was by mere good luck that this man succeeded, con- 
sidering the crude, imperfect manner in which the treat- 
ment was applied. It is hardly safe to risk attempting to 
make a bad horse go directly in this way. He should be 
made to yield first to the War Bridle until very sensitive 
to its restraint, then the pole should be adjusted very care- 
fully. If too short, or so limber that it will bend much, 
the experiment will be liable to fail. 

Case No. 4. — A great many cases illustrative of the ef- 
fect of the treatment could be referred to, but to save space 
I win add but one more, selecting as a representative case, 
one among single balkers, an eight-year-old pony owned in 
Linesville, Pa. This horse was brought in to be treated 
before the class. He attracted my attention at once from 
the fact that when irritated he would resist every effort to 
make him foUow by the War Bridle, by bracing his fore 
legs with all the stubbornness of a sullen mule. He would 
balk, riding or driving, and was entirely unmanageable. 
To test him a little, I put on the War Bridle and tried to 
move him. He spread his fore legs, and gave his head 
around to the shoulder on either side, but I could not move 
him. To undertake to handle him before a class in the 
small space at my disposal, and with a large crowd of men 



260 



BALKING. 



around, would have been a difficult and embarrassing task. 
I bad a clear intuition of his exceptionally stubborn nat- 
ure, and determined not to handle him before a class. I 
took him outside the town the next morning, and subjected 
him to Second Method. This treatment he resisted with 
great determination, and I was obliged to carry it to its 
fullest extent, and follow with the War Bridle, requiring 
in all about thirty minutes. Though he was now appar- 
ently quite gentle and manageable, he made a bold stand, 
resisting the power of the War Bridle with such determin- 




FiG. 193. — Patent Bridle as used for breaking double balkers. 
(See page 252.) 

ation that it became necessary to repeat the previous treat- 
ment, when he drove in all right. The same day he was 
driven to the county fair at Conneatsville, twelve miles dis- 
tant, drawing a heavy load. We had ordinary cases offered 
daily, which seldom required more than ten or fifteen min- 
utes to drive perfectly gentle. 



CHAPTER VII. 



RUNNING AWAY. 

Though the treatment for this habit is, to a great ex- 
tent, given under the heads of " Kicking," and " Fear," yet 
in bad cases it is liable to be so troublesome to manage that 
I deem it necessary to consider it more definitely. The 
main point is to make the mouth manageable to the re- 
straint of the bit. But if there is much viciousness or re- 
sistance, it is necessary to tone it down or overcome it by 
a general course of subjection, when the control by the 
mouth can be made more easy and certain. For example : 
A nervous, excitable colt, so unmanageable as to be both 
difficult and dangerous to put in shafts by any control that 
can be brought upon the mouth, after a proper course of 
subjective treatment which would overcome his fear and 
excitement, would be found to offer but little resistance 
to the control of even a common bit. The effect is the 
same in the management ^of headstrong, runaway horses, 
moved by some special cause of excitement, such as the rat- 
tling of a wagon or other object. 

There are three principles of controlling the mouth: 1. 
By training, as done with the Breaking Bit ; 2. By a 
form of bit that will prevent the horse from pulling against 
it, on account of the pain it causes ; 3. By obtaining 
such power upon the mouth and head as will prevent the 
horse from pulling. 

Of course these conditions run more or less into each 

(361) 



262 



EIWNING AWAY. 



other in the difFerent forms of bits given, the point in all 
cases being to use such a form of bit or method of treat- 
ment as will safely and easily effect the control. The 
Breaking Bit is undoubtedly the best for making a hard 
mouth flexible. The Half-moon Bit, with check to restrain 

a dull, stiff mouth, also works 
well. By pulling upon it, its 
thin, bearing surface presses 
against the jaw, and hurts so 
keenly that but few horses can 
pull very strongly against it. 
The Spoon Bit also, in many 
cases, works excellently by the 
pressure it throws upon the jaws 
laterally, thereby making it a 
good form of bit for cases that 
will not rein easily, or that will 
pull on one side. Next, comes 
the Four-ring Bit, which, with 
its improvement, is a very sim- 
ple but powerful means of con- 
trolling doubtful, head-strong, 
lugging horses. It is particularly well adapted for the easy 
driving of side-reiners. The fourth and last is the Patent 
Bridle, which has been designed especially for the direct 
control of head-strong, runaway horses. 

The Power of the Patent Bridle is so great that when 
properly adjusted it is very difficult for a horse to make 
any prolonged resistance to it. It acts in three important 
ways : First, in its most severe form it produces such in- 
tense pain in connection with its great power upon the 
mouth, that it is very difficult for any horse to resist its re- 
straint ; second, in proportion to the resistance, if any, 
it brings such a pressure upon the spinal cord that it be- 




FiG. 193 .—The Patent Bridle. 



THE PATENT BETDLE. 



26^ 




264 EUNNm(i AWAY. 

comes impossible to bear up against it for any length of 
time ; third, its impression upon the nervous system is 
so great that when the struggle is ended the subjection of 
the horse is complete. 

It is proper to add that these combinations and forms 
of bits may be varied in different ways to an almost unlim- 
ited degree. I give what I believe to be the simplest and 
the best. 

A cool, determined man can perform wonderful feats 
with the Breaking Bit, simple as it is. It requires more 
work, but is the only bit I have found that works satisfac- 
torily in making the mouth sensitive to the control of an or- 
dinary snaffle bit. It was with this bit I performed my 
greatest feats, and it cost me a good man;f years of experi- 
menting to develop its resources. If the mouth is stiff and 
hard, and it is desired to make it flexible, put on the har 
ness with this bit in the bridle, run the reins through the 
shaft-bearers, and get directly behind. Now commence ; 
slowly move the horse on a moderate walk, and suddenly 
call, " Whoa ! " following instantly with a quick, raking jerk 
upon the reins. Repeat at short intervals, until at the mo- 
ment the command is given, the horse will stop instantly 
to avoid the hurt of being pulled upon. Then gradually 
increase the gait to a fast trot or run, making him stop as 
before. 

In most cases the horse will submit in from ten to fif- 
teen minutes ; but if badly set in the habit, and plucky, 
the resistance may be so strong that this cannotbe doneinone 
lesson. The difficulty is, if the horse warms up very much, 
the sensibility of the mouth becomes so blunted or de- 
troyed that he will bear the severest pulling upon without 
flinching. Then the best way is to put him away until 
cool, when by a few minutes' treatment the mouth will be 
found so sensitive that he will usually submit uncondition- 



THE PATENT BEIDLE. 



265 




266 EUI^NING AWAY. 

ally. In this way it can be determined how much to do 
without danger of harm. This point accomplished, hitch 
to a wagon, and repeat the same treatment. The course pur- 
sued by the writer, as before explained, is to let the horse 
go a few steps, call, " Whoa ! " and give a sharp, raking jerk 
to force him back a little. Repeat, so far as necessary, to 
establish the point of stopping and coming back, then, as 
-before, let out a little faster until proved safe when on a 
fast trot or run. This point is to be made very thoroughly. 
If it is thought advisable, the bit can be left on for a few 
days in driving, but usually this will be unnecessary ; for if 
the horse is properly trained he can be controlled by an or- 
dinary snaffle bit. 

No chances must be taken with a runaway horse. 
This is a habit that requires thorough breaking up. In my 
practice, I am not only thorough in these cases, but even 
extreme in my treatment. No matter how well the horse 
behaves, I never let up on him until sure of his being en- 
tirely manageable under the greatest excitement. My ob- 
ject is to make the horse as safe as possible under any 
emergency. After the preliminary treatment, I drive on a 
moderate trot, and gradually up to the point of running, 
even under the whip, making him stop at command, until 
perfectly submissive. If at all disposed to be tricky, I test 
him so thoroughly as to wholly remove all inclination to 
break over. No matter how sensitive or liable to kick pre- 
viously, this should be done without even buckling the 
breeching to prevent the cross-piece coming against the 
quarters. 

This was the secret of the Malone horse, and other run- 
away horses referred to, proving so safe after being sub- 
dued. At one time, while in a crowd, the wagon was 
crushed against his quarters. At another time one of the 
couplings of shafts broke, letting it drop sideways upon his 



ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 267 

heels, — one of the most severe tests a sensitive horse can 
be subjected to,^ — yet at each time he stopped instantly at 
command and stood perfectly quiet, without showing the 
least fear. See " Malone Horse, Case No. 2, Kicking." 

To give a good idea of the effect of this bit, I will in- 
clude an account of two average cases broken by its 
use : — 

Case No. 1. 

When at Dover Plains, N. Y., a man offered to join my 
class on condition that I would break his mare of the habit of 
running away. He stated that when she reached the top 
of a hill, she would take the bit in her mouth and rush 
down, regardless of all restraint, and become entirely un- 
manageable. I simply trained her with the Breaking Bit 
about twelve minutes, when she drove gentle. Next day 
she was driven by the owner, and proved broken of the 
habit. 

Case No. 2. 

When at West Falls, near Buffalo, a gentleman told me 
he had a fine six-year-old colt that he raised and broke ; 
that he Wds naturally very gentle, and trotted fast, but one 
day while letting him out on a rapid trot, a man drove up 
behind with a pair of fast-stepping horses, which so excited 
the colt that he pulled against the bit and ran away in 
spite of all he could do. The next day he hitched him up 
and let him move off, but the moment he struck a trot, he 
ran against the bit and pulled so hard that, despite all ef- 
fort to prevent it, he again ran away. He now procured 
a pair of Hartman reins, supposing he could hold him with 
these without difficulty ; but, as before, the moment the 
horse struck a trot he ran away. He next tried different 
kinds of bits and rigging without success, and had given up 
all hope of ever being able to control hini in harness. H^ 



268 EXJN^ING AWAY. 

had now been standing six montlis in the stall, doing noth- 
ing. 

Understanding the disposition of the horse, I felt confi- 
dent there would be no difficulty in breaking him, and told 
the owner if he would join my class I would put him in the 
way of breaking the colt. He laughed, saying that he would 
beheve it when he saw it done. But by much urging he 
was finally induced to join the class. 

Having too many horses to experiment upon that day, 
to save time I subjected this horse only to the simple train- 
ing of the mouth for soma twelve minutes. At first there 
was so little sensibility that pulling upon the bit seemed 
Hke pulling upon a post ; but by repeating the treatment 
he was soon made to feel its power sufficiently to yield to 
its restraint. The owner wished the horse hitched up and 
driven out of doors, but I knew this could not be safely 
done. I told him if he would bring the horse on the next 
day to a neighboring town, I would drive him. He did so, 
and upon testing him there, I found the mouth now so sen- 
sitive that when pulled upon sharply he ran back across 
the barn. I immediately hitched him to a buggy, with 
breeching straps unbuckled, and drove him on a sharp trot 
and run, proving him perfectly manageable. He was driven 
next day by his owner to Wales Centre, and proved en- 
tirely broken. 

The more difficult cases of this character are well rep- 
resented by " Cases 2, 3, 5, and 7, Kicking ; " " Cases 1, 
3, 6, and 8, Fear ; " and " No. 2, Subjection." 

Half-moon Bit. 

The Half-moon Bit, an illustration of which is given, 
will sometimes work very nicely upon head-strong pullers. 
The point of its success lies in holding the head up, which 
ca,n be easily done by the form of checking in connection 



HALF-MOON BIT ADJUSTED. 



269 



with the extra bit, which of itself greatly restrains the im- 
pulse of resistance. The bit is very simple, merely a cir- 
cular mouth-piece, with the inner part filed down to about 
the thickness of the back of an ordinary knife-blade, and 
rounding to prevent cutting. This makes the bearing sur- 
face against the mouth so narrow that the most plucky 
horse can scarcely pull against it, while its circular form 
prevents pulling sideways. It must, however, be tried cau- 




tiously upon a dangerous horse. Before trying whether 
the horse will submit to it, put on one or two foot-straps, 
which will be sufficient to disable the horse should he lunge 
so recklessly against the bit that he cannot be held. (This 
will be necessary only in extremely bad cases.) Then 
in all cases the experiment should be made where the road 
is very wide and free from obstructions, or in an open, 
smooth field. For illustration of bit, see cut 73, page 75. 

Spoon Bit. 



The Spoon Bit, an illustration of which is given, is so 
constructed as to bring the edges of two flanges, when 



270 



BUNNII^G AWAY. 



pulled upon, upon each side of the lower jaw. In some 
cases of badly trained mouths, or of moderately head-strong 
horses, it will be found to work very nicely. One point of 
advantage is its mildness, it being only a simple snaffle 
bit until resisted. It works especially well in the manage- 
ment of horses that rein hard. It is not a bit that is 

{I '^ 




Fig. 197. — First form of Spoon Bit. Easy on tlie moutli. 



adapted for head-strong, dangerous luggers, as it does not 
give power sufficient for such cases. 

A valuable form of bit, and one which works exceed- 
ingly well for the control of some headstrong, pulling horses. 




Fig. 198. — Second form of Spoon Bit. Gives more Power. 



is a simple bar made flat or concave on one side, and 
rounded on the other, from five-eighths to three-fourths of 
an inch wide, with a piece of rounded leather inside the 
ring on each end, as shown in cuts 199, 200. The flat or 
concave side is used when the horse pulls, or is inclined to 
resist the bit. When the mouth is sensitive and managea- 
ble, simply turning the rounded side against the jaw makes 



FOUE-EING BIT. 



271 



it extremely easy on the mouth. The length must be reg- 
ulated to the size of mouth, or about the average length of 



driving-bits. 



Four-ring Bit. 



The Four-ring Bit is peculiar in respect to the sensibil- 
ity it causes upon the roof of the mouth. While it is not 
a bit that gives much direct power, the effect is such that 




Fig. 199. — Slightly rounded, or flat Concave, with edges rounded, when 
when not desired to be severe. more severity is required. 

but few horses outside of lunging, runaway horses, can ef- 
fectually pull against it. Hence a horse that with an or- 
dinary bit would pull so hard as to make it extremely dif- 




FiG. 800.— The rounded side of the bar. 

ficult to restrain and control him, more especially one that as 
he warms up will pull harder, will scarcely pull at all upon 
this bit, but will drive so easily as to hardly straighten the 
reins. 

It is not, however, to be risked too much in the driving 
of a really dangerous horse ; for, as before stated, its suc- 
cess depends more upon the sensibility it causes upon the 
roof of the mouth than upon any real power it otherwise 



272 RUNNING AWAY. 

gives. Consequently, should the horse lunge recklessly 
against the bit, the pain it inflicts not being suf3ficient to 
hold him in check, he is liable to get away. When used 
upon a doubtful horse, he should be carefully tested with 
it, first by driving around a little in harness, then as de^ 
scribed in the use of the Half-moon Bit. The foot strap 
should also be used to enable testing the horse sufficiently 
hard to know with certainty to what degree the horse will 
submit to the restraint. It is no proof of skill, but, on the 
contrary, of ignorant fool-hardiness, to take doubtful chances 
in the management of cases in which a single mismove 
would precipitate a dangerous runaway. 

It is a perfect remedy for cases that pull on one rein, 
and for luggers. It should be carefully fitted. The strap 
across the nose should not be so long as to lose the power 
of forcing the joint firmly against the roof of the mouth. 

Patent Bkidle. 

To give sufficient power to overcome extreme resistance 
most effectually, I devised the Patent Bridle, which gives 
such power that the strongest horse can be easily held and 
controlled. It does not require any practice or work other 
than fitting the head-piece and bridle to the head, and set- 
ting the horse back a few times. It gives two important 
points of advantage : 1st. It is as any common bit in the 
mouth until resistance is excited, when by an ordinary pull 
such pain and power are produced in the mouth that it can 
rarely be resisted ; 2nd. Should there be so much 
pluck as to pull against it, in addition to the pain and pur- 
chase upon the mouth, it also causes such pressure upon 
the spinal cord, — the most vital part of the whole body, — 
that the whole nervous system is relaxed, and the horse is 
subdued, driving with a slack rein ; yet it is ready at any 
time to repeat the same terrible penalty. 



PULLING UPON ONE KElN. 273 

This bridle and the bits will be furnished by the author 



or his agents. 



Lugging, or Pulling upon One Rein. 



The habit of lugging or pulling on one rein is the re- 
sult of the faulty method of training the mouth. If not 
made to submit to flexible restraint, when pulled upon the 
result is lugging, pulling on one rein, etc. It may result 
from one side of the mouth being sore, but is not so often 
from this cause as supposed. 

The. quickest and simplest way to break up this habit 
is to put on the Breaking Bit, also the First Form of the 
War Bridle. But instead of bringing the cord through the 
mouth, bring it through the rings of the bit. Pull sharply 
on the side opposite that on which he lugs, until he wiU 
bring the liead around freely without being pulled upon. 
Now tie up the cord, take down the reins, and drive around. 
If he pulls in the least, repeat the lesson, until he learns 
to yield promptly to the restraint of the reins, when he 
ought to drive to an ordinary bit ; or the Breaking Bit 
can be kept on for a day or two. This treatment will make 
that side of the mouth as tender and submissive to restraint 
as the opposite, and he will puU evenly. 

I have found a great many bits advertised as a perfect 
remedy for side-reiners, etc., but in my experience they 
have not proved satisfactory. Sometimes a bit will work 
on some horses, but not on others. The Four-ring Bit, as 
explained under that head, is practically a specific for this 
habit ; but as it is advisable in many cases to so break up 
the habit that an ordinary bit can be used, I have thought 
it advisable to include details for doing it. 



18 



274 RUNNING AWAY. 

Will not Back. 

Sometimes a horse will back readily out of harness, but 
when put before a wagon will resist every effort to make 
him back. Again, a horse may back all right until crowded 
and maddened, when he will stand sullenly, and refuse to 
move. Various palliative measures could be mentioned 
for making such a horse back, though they are hardly prac- 
ticable; as, standing in front and pushing the end of a 
sharp stick under the shoulder blade gently until he will 
go back ; or, by taking a firm hold of the reins, and kick- 
ing the shins until the leg is lifted, then pushing back and 
repeating until successful. 

If a young, sullen colt is liable to resist the restraint 
upon the mouth so much as to injure it, put around the 
body a surcingle. Tie a rope around the fore foot below 
the fetlock, and bring forward over the belly-band. Now, 
while standing in front of the horse, catch hold of the reins 
and pull up the foot ; as you let the foot down again, pull 
upon the reins ; this will bring the foot down eight or ten 
inches back of the other one. Caress for this, and repeat, 
which will very soon teach a sullen colt to go back 
freely. 

The War Bridle, Second Form, will usually work bet- 
ter than this means, but it is liable, in extreme cases, to 
bruise the mouth somewhat. If, however, it is desired to 
use it, stand on the near side, bring the head partly around, 
then give a sharp pull backward ; this will force the horse 
partly sideways, as well as back. Forcing him sideways a 
little prevents his power, in a great measure, to brace 
against the pull, as he could do if pulled upon in a line with 
the body. Simply repeat cautiously until he can be made 
to go back freely. 

If a horse that has learned to resist, put on the harness 



WILL NOT BACK. 275 

with the Breaking Bit, or Half-moon Bit, and with a firm 
hold of the reins get directly behind and call, " Back ! " 
sharply. Follow this with a quick, sharp, raking pull, so 
that, if possible, the horse can be forced back before warm- 
ing up, as he will in this condition struggle hard to resist. 
If he spreads his legs, and throws his head sullenly against 
the bit or down upon the breast, the case is a bad one, 
and it is necessary to work carefully. Simply repeat 
slowly, and if there is not success before he warms up and 
becomes reckless, put him away until cool, when the mouth 
will be found so tender that he will rarely refuse to go back 
freely when pulled upon. 

Great care should be used not to force the horse back 
too freely after he once gives up ; for with the increased 
tenderness of the mouth produced by the severe treatment, 
he may acquire the habit of going back too freely when 
pulled upon, — one of the most annoying habits a horse can 
learn. I would call attention to this particularly in train- 
ing colts to back. 

Usually a lesson of ten or fifteen minutes is sufficient 
for ordinary cases, but I have in a few instances found old 
horses that had learned this habit so thoroughly that it was 
utterly impossible to break them of it. One of the worst 
I ever found was in a small town in Connecticut. This 
was a medium-sized, gray horse, twelve years old. He 
could not be made to back, in or out of harness. The 
Breaking Bit was used, and he was compelled at first to go 
back repeatedly by making th 3 jerks so quick and sharp as 
to force him to yield before he could concentrate his pur- 
pose to resist. But becoming warmed up, the legs were 
thrown forward at an acute angle with such an obstinacy of 
resistance as to defy the utmost force of punishment by 
the bit. As a matter of experiment, five men pulled stead- 
ily upon each rein ; but the horse resisted with so much 



276 RUNNING AWAY. 

stubbornness as to be pulled down upon the belly. Seeing 
the necessity of now resting until the mouth could become 
sensitive, and the excitement pass off, I directed the 
owner to bring the horse to the next town, promising to 
then make the experiment a success. Upon trial at this 
place, a few quick, energetic pulls proved sufficient to make 
the case yield, and he soon could be made to back as read- 
ily as desired. 

Will not Stand. 

Usually it is not difficult to teach a horse to stand un- 
less there is inclination to balk. If a young horse that is 
simply a little impulsive, treat the same as directed for 
teaching colts to stand. Usually, with an ordinary mild 
bit, there will be an inclination to pull against it and fight 
its restraint. If this is the case, the Breaking Bit can be 
used as follows : — 

First, with the harness on, train to stop as explained 
in Colt Training. When first hitched to a wagon, let it be 
away from the place where accustomed to be hitched. I 
prefer to turn the horse's head toward a high fence or barn, 
because there is less inclination to go ahead when such an 
obstruction is in view. Then get in and out repeatedly, 
occasionally giving him an apple, etc., for some time. Now 
move him around, standing him a little farther off at each 
repetition, and gradually more sideways, until ho will stand 
with his body parallel to the barn or away from it. Next, 
repeat the lesson where in the habit of being hitched, un- 
til he will stand as desired. 

When hitched in, have the reins in the hand or within 
easy reach. The moment he starts, give a sharp pull that 
will make him stand, go to the head and stroke it for a 
while, then go back to the wheel. For the least resistance, 
set him back sharply with the reins. When desired to 



WILL NOT STAND. 277 

start, take him by the head, and, after going a few steps, 
call, " Whoa ! " If he does not stop promptly, pull sharply 
upon the reins until he will do so. Reward for standing ; 
punish for moving. Having once learned to stand and wait, 
get on the step and make a noise ; this submitted to, get in 
quietly and sit down. Repeat the stopping, starting, and 
waiting, until the impression is fixed upon the mind. After 
he will do this properly away from the house, he should be 
taken where in the habit of resisting, and the lesson re- 
peated, if necessary. 

Horses of this character are sometimes very sensitive, 
and require nice management, because they are so easily 
taught to balk. The point is to impress thoroughly the 
idea of stopping, and make it so habitual that, when the 
horse is most impulsive during cold and chilly weather, it 
will not be forgotten. A very good plan, should the case 
be a little doubtful, and seem in danger of working into the 
habit again, would be to have some one stand in front of 
him, or near the head, and stroke the nose a little, but not 
touch the reins. This will disconcert the horse sufficiently 
to make him stand while getting in, when by stepping out 
of his way he will move off quietly. 

If the Breaking Bit is not available, the following course 
of treatment, though requiring more time and care, 
will be found to work very well : Put on the foot strap, 
call " Whoa ! " at the same time pull upon the foot strap, 
which will pull the foot up and throw the horse upon three 
legs. After a few repetitions, he will stop rather than be 
pulled upon and tripped. Now put him before a wagon, 
carrying the foot strap back as a third rein. If he starts, 
simply pull the foot from under a few times, or until he 
win stand as desired. In some cases, the foot strap may 
be put on both fore feet, as a very determined horse may 
lunge forward upon three feet. If when one foot is taken 



278 EUNNIiS^Gr AWAY. 

up there is inclination to lunge forward, simply pull the 
other foot from under, which brings him forward upon his 
knees. This treatment should be given on soft, sodded 
ground, or sandy road free from stones, to avoid bruising 
the knees. 

Put the Breaking Bit into the bridle and commence crack- 
ing a whip, yelling, or anything else to attact his attention. 
If he moves, punish by jerking him back sharply, and say, 
" Whoa ! " Then repeat, cracking the whip, etc., until he 
will stand quietly under the excitement. When he will 
stand while in wagon, get out and caress him, walk around 
carelessly, crack the whip, etc. The instant he starts, call 
" Whoa ! " and jerk him back again. When he will stand, 
go to his head, caress, give an apple, etc. ; so repeat the 
lesson until he will stand quietly. At first, the cause of 
excitement should be moderate, gradually increasing each 
time. The reins should extend back into the wagon over 
the seat, so they can be caught quickly when necessary. 
In this way the horse is made afraid to start for fear cf be- 
ing punished. If it is desired to make the effect still more 
thorough, boys can be made to run around, make a noise, 
etc. 

A simple way to make a horse stand without being 
hitched, is to buckle or tie a strap or cord around the near 
fore foot below the fetlock, and tie the other end around 
the shaft back of the cross-piece, bringing it short enough 
so that, while not interfering with the limb while standing, 
it prevents its being brought forward in the effort to stop 
or go ahead. A horse will stand quietly by spanceling the 
fore legs together; that is, tying two small cords around the 
fore legs about six or seven inches apart. As soon as the 
horse finds he cannot step, he wiU stand quietly. 



CHAPTER VIII. 



HALTER-PULLING. 

Halter-pulling is one of the simple habits that not only 
cause great annoyance, but seriously injure the value of a 
horse, by rendering him unsafe to be left hitched in the 
street. A horse subject to this habit may stand all right 
when not excited, but will be ready to break his neck in 
the attempt to pull loose should a bit of paper, or anything 




Fig. 201, — As the colt will naturally resist when pulled 
upon straight ahead. 

else, be suddenly thrown down in front of him. There 
was no habit that troubled me more to learn how to man- 
age than this one. It was easy enough, with a little care, 
to keep a horse from pulling for a short time, but the diffi- 
culty was, in bad cases, to wholly prevent or break up the 
habit. 

When there is an effort at first to lead a colt by the 
halter, the moment the pressure is felt upon the head, there 

(379) 



280 



HALTEE-PULLING. 



is an inclination to resist, or pull back. If the halter is a 
rough, hard, rope one, with the slipping-noose back of the 
jaw, when pulled upon the pain inflicted will increase this 
tendency to resist and pull away. (See cut 201.) In the 
same manner when a colt is tied, and his freedom restrained, 
there is a natural inclination to resist and pull back ; and 
if after a violent struggle the halter is broken, the habit of 
pulling is learned. Usually, the younger the colt the more 




Tig. SOS. — As the colt is liable to break loose when hitched 
in the usual manner. 

stubborn will be the inclination to pull, and often he wiU 
struggle so desperately as to throw himself down. Not 
only this, but there is danger of straining and injuring the 
neck by the Adolence of the jerking and pulling. I have 
known of colts pulling so hard as to make the neck stiff, 
deforming and spoiling them j and in a few cases even kill- 
ing themselves by dislocating the neck. Yet there was 
practically no better remedy in use than to hitch by a hal- 
ter so strong that he could not break it. The point was to 
be able to so hitch the colt as to induce the least incUna- 



METHOD OF TEBATMENT. 281 

tion to pull, and that when he did pull he could not break 
away, strain, or otherwise injure himself. 

The first successful experiment I made in the manage- 
ment of this habit was to pass the hitching part of the hal- 
ter through the ring in the manger, thence back over the 
belly-band, and tie to the hind foot, leaving it so long that 
the horse could step around as usual. When the horse 
pulled, the strain came directly upon the hind leg, which 
prevented his pulling severely. After submitting to this, 
I next tied the hitching part around the fore leg above the 
knee, so that should he pull, the leg was pulled forward to 
the manger. But I soon discovered two objections to this 
method : First, there was danger, by this violent pulling 
upon the leg, of causing serious lameness ; and second, 
when afterward hitched directly by the head, there was a 
liability of his repeating the pulling. 

To avoid this difficulty I took a cord of sufficient length, 
brought the center under the tail like a crupper, bringing 
both ends forward over the back, twisting a few times, and 
then knotted them together in front of the breast. I then 
passed the ends through the rings of the halter, and tied 
to the post or manger. When the horse pulled, the strain 
came directly upon the tail, which, in the case of a colt, 
would cause him to jump ahead, surprised and frightened. 
I soon learned, however, that a stubborn horse accustomed 
to the habit, would quickly learn to pull against it, or pull 
as bad as ever when it was taken off. I also found that it 
was apt to make the tail so sore that there was not only 
liability to cause the horse to kick then when pulled upon, 
but afterward, should the rein be caught under the tail, or 
he be otherwise irritated. 

I then devised the plan of making a noose of the cord, 
and placing it well back around the body, bringing both 
cords forward between the legs, and through the hole in 



282 HALTEB-PTJLLING. 

the manger, thence back to the halter, and fasten. Thus 
two important improvements were made ; namely, the seri- 
ous objection of making the tail sore was removed ; and, 
instead of tying directly to the post or manger, passing it 
through the ring or hole in the manger, and tying to the 
halter back of the jaw, the restraint was brought directly 
upon the head as if ordinarily hitched, but with the advan- 
tage of greatly disabling and punishing, while the horse 
could not strain or injure himself in the least, no matter 
how hard he pulled. 

If the subject were a colt, the moment there was an ef- 
fort to pull, the sudden tightening of the cord around the 
body frightened and hurt him so much that it compelled an 
instantaneous jumping ahead, and after repeating two or 
three times, all inclination to pull was entirely overcome. 
It was necessary to hitch him in this way only a few times, 
when he could be tied by the halter directly, without know- 
ing it was possible to puU. If while hitched in this man- 
ner he was frightened by a robe, or a piece of paper coming 
suddenly in front of him, he was soon convinced of his in- 
ability to pull loose, and consequently the inclination to do 
so was overcome. 

For especially bad, sullen pullers, however, I found this 
was not of itself sufficient to break up the habit. It was 
easy, of course, to prevent the horse from pulling while the 
rig was on, but when taken off, and the horse tied as usual 
by the halter, there was liability of his again repeating the 
pulling. To overcome this difficulty, I was led to the ex- 
pedient, when there was an effi^rt to puU, of inflicting such 
intense pain as to disconcert the horse from his purpose, 
even while under the greatest excitement, and on this point 
I was successful. To give something of an idea how I was 
led to do this, I will refer to a chance incident : — 

Two colts that puUed very hard upon the halter— one 



METHOD OF TBEATMENT. 



283 



of them desperately — were brought me to experiment upon. 
The one that pulled the worst provoked me so much by his 
intense pulling, that to frighten him out of it I whipped 
him very hard upon the tip of his nose, where there is the 
most sensibility. Though he made a supreme struggle, I 
succeeded in this way in making him so afraid to pull that, 
no matter how excited afterward, he could not be made to 
go back. The other horse submitted in a few minutes, re- 
quiring but a slight punishment. Meeting the owner after- 
ward, he informed me that the horse that pulled the hard- 




FiG. 303,— As a horse of sullen temper is liable to throw himself 
down when pulling. 

est at first never did it afterward, while he had much 
trouble in effectually breaking the other one of the habit. 
This led me to experiment upon this principle all I 
could. When I found a bad case, I treated it, if possible, 
in private, and was invariably so successful that I soon be- 
came convinced that I could in this way force the most 
stubborn pullers into submission in a few minutes. In 
making these experiments for over two years, I found that 
in many cases the lesson must be repeated, in order to fully 
break up the habit, and that it was fatal to success to let 
the horse feel that he could resist at any point. Nothing 



284 HALTEE-PULLING. 

with which the horse is tied should give way. Even the 
breaking of the whip, or the inability to force to the point 
of complete submission, would be equivalent to defeat. In 
all cases, the experiment should be made at the place where 
in the habit of resisting, or as near it as possible. 

The Patent Bridle will be found to give still more power, 
and is indispensable in the breaking of bridle-pullers. In 
using this, reverse the reins through the pulley, so that in- 
stead of passing back, they will run forward. (See cut 205.) 
Now the moment the horse pulls, the punishment upon the 
head becomes so severe that he will be afraid to re- 
peat it. 

Having learned these points, I advertised, among other 
apparently difficult feats, to break any halter-puller in two 
minutes so that he would not pull upon his own halter when 
hitched. Many amusing incidents could be given, showing 
an effort to break me down in this respect. I will give 
here two illustrative cases, one of them among the worst 
halter-pullers the writer ever saw : — 

On the morning of my engagement at a large town in 
Northern New York, happening to step into a livery stable, 
I found several men standing around, laughing and yelling 
at a mare hitched in the stall. She had a rope under her 
tail, against which she pulled with great desperation, sit- 
ting back upon the ground and bracing herself with her fore 
legs. There was no lunging, but a steady, reckless pull, 
which settled the cord its thickness into the flesh of her 
tail. In explanation, they said they were stirring up and 
practicing the mare, to have a good subject for me ; that 
they knew she was the premium halter-puller of that coun- 
try, and they proposed to fix her so that she would 
beat me. 

She was ten years old, of medium size, brownish black 
in color, of the most courageous, plucky character imagina- 



METHOD OF TREATMENT. 285 

ble, and one of the worst possible halter-pullers in the coun- 
try. She would undoubtedly have defeated me had I 
not, in this way, become aware of her extremely bad char- 
acter, and prepared for the emergency. It was a precon- 
certed plan to spring the mare upon me, and defeat me, 
and thus make an excuse to get their money back. Though 
I had never seen so bad a halter-puller before, I determined 
to put a bold front on the matter, and pass for all I was 
worth. 

In forming a class, I told the people they were to dis- 
tinctly understand if I could not control the mare in two 




Fig. 204. — The halter-puller trying to pull loose. 

minutes so that she could not be made to pull when hitched 
by her own halter, I would give every man his money 
back ; with this understanding I made a large class. 

It now became important for them to defeat me, and 
for me, if possible, to succeed. Fearing my whip would 
break, I secured an extra one, of the best quality I could 
find, stripped off my coat and vest, attended carefully to 
every detail of hitching, and doubled the usual strength of 
the cord, to guard against the possibility of breaking. The 
moment the mare was tied, she went back with all the fury 
of a maniac. But she had no more than done so when I 
sent the ksh of the whip across the tip of her nose, re- 



286 HALTEE-PULLING. 

peating as rapidly and with as much force as I could. The 
struggle was a desperate one, and the excitement and anx- 
iety to see which would heat was intense. At the four- 
teenth or fifteenth blow, the whip broke ; dropping it and 
catching the other, without losing a blow, I followed up the 
struggle. Had this whip broken, failure would have been 
inevitable ; but fortunately it held out, and at about the 
thirtieth blow she jumped ahead. But true to the in- 
stincts of her desperate pluck, she immediately went back 
again. The punishment, however, was too hot for her, and 




Fig. 205. — As a horse will rear and jump ahead after pulling. 

after the third stroke she bounded into the air, completely 
conquered ; for, in defiance of the utmost effort, she could 
not be made to pull back. I was consequently voted "all 
right." So great was the exertion on my part, that after 
she submitted I was out of breath and completely ex- 
hausted. 

I told the owner afterward that if he wished to break the 
mare successfully, he must not permit any fooling with her j 
he must lead her quietly to the stable, back her into the 
stall, tie her head to the post, and let her stand until cool 
and over the excitement, when the impression would be so 



METHOD OF TBEATMENT. 287 

intensified that she would not repeat the habit ; and as a 
matter of precaution to test her as thoroughly as he could, 
then hitch her as I had done. I met the owner a week 
afterward, when he told me there were not men enough in 
town to make her pull hard enough now to break a tow 
string. 

At Marion, N. Y., where I made a large class many 
years before, I found a twenty-four-year-old mare that had 
not been hitched for ten years ; also a daughter and grand- 
daughter of the mare, — all confirmed halter- pullers. To 
catch me, nothing was said about the character of the sub- 
jects until the time of making the experiments. The young- 
est mare was led in first, and proved a decidedly good sub- 
ject, yielding unconditionally in about a minute. They 
next led in the mother, a twelve-year-old mare, saying, 
" We have another case we wish tried." But, upon trial, 
she yielded, if anything, more readily than the first. They 
laughed and said, " Now let us have the old mare ; if he 
can stop her from pulling, we will give it up." This revealed 
the plot, and she w^as the reserved case upon which they 
depended to defeat me. Upon trial, however, the old mare 
proved no more difficult than the others, — in fact, not mak- 
ing near so good a contest as the first. Almost daily there 
were horses of this character brought me, many of them ex- 
tremely bad ; but in no case was there failure. (Details 
of hitching a colt, and accustoming to stand hitched, are 
fully given in " Colt Training," and can be referred to un- 
der that head.) 

In breaking up this habit, no possible chances for de- 
feat should be taken. First, the cord must be so light and 
pliable as not to be noticeably felt around the body, yet 
so strong that it cannot be broken by the most desperate 
lunging. If heavy and clumsy, it would teach to descrim- 
inate between being off or on. Secondly, the manger, post, 



288 



HALTBE-PULLING. 



or ring through which the cord plays, should he so strong 
or solid there is no danger of giving way. If it is a hitching 
ring, and small or rough, it should he wound with leather, 
or something to prevent its cutting the cord. Thirdly, the 
horse should be first tied where in the habit of pulling 
hardest, or where most accustomed to pull. The degree 
of freedom should be about the same as when ordinarily 
hitched by the halter, and the point of tying or playing 
through the ring should be about on a level with the breast. 
As before explained, in ordinary cases all that is necessary 
is to hitch in this way, and frighten him back a little at 




Fig. 306.-^A test to which the halter-puller was usually submitted 
by the class after treatment. 

first by whatever excites him, until he refuses to go back, 
when all inclination to pull is overcome. While in serious 
cases, especially if of a plucky, determined character, pun- 
ishing sharply with a whip will be necessary. 

It is important also that the whip be of the most suit- 
able kind, as in many cases the want of this precaution 
would be sufficient to cause defeat. It should be from five 
to six feet long, rather stiff, with a bow top made of buck- 
skin, and a good hard lash. It must be of such good ma- 
terial that there will be no danger ofits breaking, and so easily 



METHOD OF TEEATMENT. ^89 

handled that the end of the nose can be struck with quick- 
ness and precision. If long and unwieldy, it cannot be 
handled with the effectiveness necessary, as there is dan- 
ger of hitting around the eyes and head, which must not 
be done. 

Another point : The horse must not at first be hitched 
where he cannot, if necessary, be punished with the whip. 
When he goes back, punish instantly. When he jumps for- 
ward, make a noise, crack the whip, or anything else, but 
do not strike him. It is advisable to let him stand quietly 
where treated until cool. He may, when left alone, try to 
pull again once or twice, but this will only fix the impres- 
sion the stronger until he will give up the contest. Next, 
he should be tested at other points, though not very se- 
verely. If he puUs, the punishment should be quick and 
sharp until submissive. It does no good to break a horse 
only sufficiently to make him stand quietly when not ex- 
cited or frightened. To be effective, he must be made to 
stand quietly, regardless of any of the usual causes of ex- 
citement. Unless this can be done, the horse cannot be 
risked hitched in the street, or at any place where exposed 
to any causes of fear. Hitching to a limb of a tree, which 
will give when pulled upon, wiU prevent the habit during 
the time hitched, but when tied to an unyielding post or 
manger he is again liable to pull. 

Running Back in the Stall when Unhitched. 

For ordinary cases of running back in the stall when 
unhitched, tie a little longer than for halter-pulling ; then 
untie the halter, and the horse will run back to the point 
of being disabled and hurt. This will cause him to jump 
ahead. Repeat, at each time tying a little longer, until 
the nose will come on a line with the back end of the stall, 
when he should be hit sharply across the nose until he 

19 



290 



HALTEE-PULLIKG. 




jumps ahead. This will in a short time make him afraid 
to run back. As a precaution, it is advisable, the next time 
he is unhitched, to have a cord on, so that should he try 
to run back he could be caught by the cord attachment and 
punished as before. 

Whenever I had a particularly bad case of this kind, I 

would hitch the horse as 
before explained, but with 
the cord or rope so long 
that when he went back it 
let the nose come just out- 
side the stall. I would 
then stand outside, while 
some one unhitched him, 
or made him go back. The 
moment he w^ent the length 

Fig. 207.— First method of making a horse of the COrd, he WaS stoppod 
stand in harness without hitching. ^j^}^ ^ jerk, whcu I stood 

ready to punish him by hitting him 
across the tip of the nose once or 
twice, causing him to jump ahead. 
A few repetitions of this would 
make him so afraid he could not 
be made to go back. I have at 
different times created considera- 
ble amusement in the management 
of these cases by making it im- 
possible for the owner, after the 
experiment, to back the horse out 
of the stall. Treated in this way, 
the management of these cases is 
easy and simple. 

It is sometimes quite important to have a horse stand 
without being hitched, as there may be no hitching-post at 




Fig. 208. — Second method of 
making a horse stand with- 
out being hitched. 



EUNNING- BACK IK STALL. 



291 



hand. This can be done in two ways : First, by buckling 
one end of a strap around the foot below the fetlock, and 
the other end to the crosspiece of the shafts, just short 
enough to hold the foot in 
a perpendicular position. 
When the horse tries to 
step, being unable to carry 
the foot forward he is 
rendered helpless. It is 
always advisable to try a 
horse before leaving him 
in this way, as it is barely 
possible he may lunge for- 
ward upon three legs if 
badly frightened ; but 
only wild, impulsive fel- 
lows are liable to do this, 
the fore legs together. 




Fig. 209. — How to hitch a horse to a tree 

or smooth post so that the strap or 

cord will not untie or slip down. 



Another way is to simply tie 
as seen in the cut. This method is 
specially valuable in making saddle-horses stand without 
hitched. 

It is also important to be able to hitch a horse to a tree 
or smooth post in such a manner as to prevent the cord 
from slipping down. Above I give an illustration of a 
method for doing this, which is so plain that it does not 
need any further description. 



CHAPTER IX. 



STALLIONS. 



There is no class of horses that require more careful 
management than stallions. They have more intelligence 
than other horses, and are quicker to take advantage when 
carelessness or weakness is shown. They are also more 
courageous in their re- 
sistance. In addition, 
the character of their re- 
sistance — b iting and 
striking — ^is far more dif- 
ficult to combat. Mis- 
takes can be made in 
breaking mares and geld- 
ings without doing much 
more harm than to in- 
crease the labor of their 
subjection ; but in subdu- 
ing a stallion, a mistake, 
or even slight carelessness, is in many cases fatal to suc- 
cess. The whip should never be used upon a horse of 
this character ; for there is great danger, if at all spirited 
or courageous, of his becoming aggressive and vicious. 

A young horse that is very gentle, allowing himself to 
be handled and caressed around the head, etc., can, by bad 
treatment, easily be made so vicious that his whole char- 

C292) 




Fig. 210.— Portrait from life of Old Hamble- 

tonian. Sire of the Hambletonian 

trotters. 



BEPOEB TEBATMENT. 



293 




294 STALLIONS. 

acter is changed. A great many cases of tMs kind have 
come under my observation. At one time, a gentleman 
who had previously attended one of my lectures, told me 
that he and his brother owned a fine stallion in company. 
The horse was naturally quite gentle, but one day his 
brother, becoming impatient with him, hit him sharply ; the 
result was the horse ever afterward held such an antipathy 
against him that he could not safely go near or handle him 
in any way, while towards himself the horse was perfectly 
gentle. 

One of my pair of matched, trained horses, nine years 
old, bought in Madison, 0., and exhibited by me for a num- 
ber of years, was of good character at the time of coming 
into my possession ; but when I undertook to train him to 
be controlled by the whip, he became so excited when hit 
that he jumped at me with all the ferocity of a bulldog, 
and I was obliged to tie him back. One sharp whipping, 
and leaving him mad, would have made him irretrievably 
vicious ; so I was very careful when compelled to rouse 
him much to treat him afterward with great kindness, — 
giving him apples, rubbing his nose, etc., until entirely over 
the excitement, and finally succeeded in training him as I 
wished without making him vicious. After using him for 
some years, he passed into other hands, when, by needless 
excitement and punishment, he became so bad a biter as to 
be almost worthless. 

The " Gifi"ord-Morgan Horse," sold to Fred Arnd, of 
Bath, N. Y., and mentioned in the last part of this chapter, 
is a striking case in point. Had I not been in Bath at the 
time, and able to treat him properly, he would have been 
entirely unmanageable and worthless. 

I would also refer to the " Robert's Horse/' of Utica, 



SPECIAL CASES. 295 

N. Y. (" Case No. 13, Subjection.") This horse had previ- 
ously been of so good a character that he was used for family 
driving ; but in consequence of being whipped repeatedly 
by an ignorant groom in order to make him show off, he 
became so vicious as to be entirely unmanageable. There 
are, however, occasionally to be found stallions that are by 
nature vicious, even in defiance of the most careful manage- 
ment. Perhaps the most marked case of this character 
ever known in this country was the Hillman Horse, " Jet," 
Case 7, Subjection. 

During the conversation I held with Mr. Goodenough 
(referred to in chapter on " Subjection "), in speaking of the 
intelligence of horses, he said, " It is wonderful what a 
memory a horse has. Once, while we were subjecting the 
Stafford Stallion to treatment, his resistance was so deter- 
mined that Rarey lost his patience, and hit him across the 
head with a pitch-fork. The horse never forgot it; for he ever 
afterward manifested such hatred towards him that he 
could approach and handle him only by using the greatest 
caution, while I could handle him without exciting in him 
the least resentment. Some time afterward, when handling 
him, happening to leave the enclosure for a moment, the 
horse suddenly grabbed Rarey by the arm, and would un- 
doubtedly have killed or seriously injured him had I not 
quickly rushed to the rescue. On my approach, the horse 
let go and ran off." 

I refer to these cases to show to owners the necessity 
of employing good, careful men to take charge of their 
horses. A coarse-grained, passionate man should not be 
employed at any price. Habits of intemperance should in 
all cases be sufficient to disqualify a man for such work. 

My experience in the management of this class of horses 



296 STAJjLIONS. 

has been very extensive. Advertising as a specialty that 
I would make any headstrong, unmanageable stallion that 
could not be led or controlled by even two or three men at 
once, so manageable in ten minutes that I could stand ten 
feet away and call him to me away from a mare or other 
horses, of course there was great interest to see whether I 
could do so apparently difficult a feat; and almost every 
week or two an especially vicious stallion of this character 
would be reported for treatment, but he invariably proved a 
good subject. 

There is no class of horses that submit more readily to 
treatment when taken in time, but they are the hardest to re- 
form when the treatment is not right, or when, by the in- 
efficiency of the owner or groom, they are afterward al- 
lowed successful resistance. On this account I have thought 
it advisable to give special instructions for the management 
of these cases. 

Treatment for Headstrong Stallions. 

If a colt is simply unbroken and impulsive — perhaps 
nipping a little — he can be easily made gentle by subject- 
ing him lightly to the Second Method and following with 
the War Bridle. Sometimes a horse of this character is 
perfectly manageable until led near other horses, when he 
will try to pull away. I will refer to two or three such 
cases. While at Pennington, N. J., a horse that pulled away 
so badly he could not be taken into the streets at all if 
other horses were in sight, was reported for treatment. He 
was subjected lightly to the Second Method, and then 
brought under thorough control by the War Bridle, when 
he was led home as manageable as any horse. 

At a point in Northern New York, a five-year-old horse 



AFTEE TEBATMENT. 



297 




298 STALLIONS. 

was produced that proved entirely unmanageable in this re- 
spect. As a test, a horse was brought to his view at the 
opposite end of the barn, when, in spite of the united efforts 
of two or three men, he rushed toward him, and to guard 
against accident, the horse was taken away. In less than 
five minutes' treatment by the War Bridle he was made 
perfectly gentle while in the presence of other horses — 
even to being called away from them by word of command 
alone, while I was standing from six to ten feet away from 
him. 

At Litchfield Corners, Me., a horse of the same age was 
reported to be utterly unmanageable when brought near 
other horses ; but by the same treatment he was brought 
under control in less time than the above case. At another 
place near Portland, Me., a four-year-old colt that had be- 
come entirely unmanageable in the same way, and was 
brought to the place of experiment only by blindfolding, 
was made completely manageable in seven or eight min- 
utes, and led home by the owner without the least difficulty. 

Well-bred, nervous-tempered horses of this character 
will always prove easy subjects to manage ; while those of 
a sullen, cold-blooded, or draft order, may be found quite 
difficult, and require very careful treatment. It is seen 
that for these simple cases a short lesson with the most se- 
vere form of the War Bridle should be all that is necessary. 
Stand opposite the shoulder, four or five feet away, and 
give a sharp puU, repeating slowly until he wiU come 
around promptly. This lesson must be made sufficiently 
thorough to overcome all inclination to resist, no matter 
how tried or excited. Five or ten minutes' treatment, 
when properly done, should be sufficient to break up the 
habit. 



VICIOUS STALLIONS. 299 

Treatment for Very Vicious Stallions. 

Vicious staUions require very careful management. In 
determining the treatment, a great deal depends upon the 
temperament of the horse, and how greatly his resentment 
has been excited. A horse that seems the worst is not al- 
ways the hardest to break ; in fact, if he has never been 
fooled with much, he may be, in many instances, the very 
easiest to manage ; and when once subdued by the methods 
of subjection given here, it will not be difficult to hold the 
character good by careful after-treatment. 

If a stallion of moderately good disposition be partially 
broken or subdued, and that for a number of times, it may 
be very difficult to afterward make him reliably gentle. 
Or when once thoroughly subdued, if he is whipped or 
managed in such a way as to again excite him to resist, it would 
require the most thorough course of treatment j;o produce 
the same degree of docility as before ; for by such success- 
ful resistance the horse is taught a degree of cunning and 
treachery that it is next to impossible to break up. On this 
account it is of the greatest importance that the treatment 
of these cases, when once undertaken, should be very care- 
ful and thorough. 

For a really dangerous horse whose head cannot be 
reached with safety, the best course is to subject him first 
to the Second Method, which will give sufficient foundation 
to use the other methods with more success. Subject him 
next to the First Method, throwing rapidly as long as he 
will get up, or until he will not try to resist. It is rarely 
this will not make the horse, in a general way, submissive ; 
but as it is necessary to make the impression as intense as 
possible upon these doubtful cases, this treatment should 



300 STALLIONS. 

be followed with the Third Method, and in some cases it 
may be advisable to repeat again with the Second, after 
which the War Bridle should be used. 

It is almost needless to remark that there should be the 
most careful attention, whUe going around the horse, to keep 
such a restraint upon him as will prevent his biting. A 
very little carelessness, such as taking the eye off* from 
his, turning the back to him, or relaxing restraint upon the 
head, would encourage aggression, and practically undo all 
that has been done. It is easy enough to subject the horse 
to the various methods of subjection given, but it is not so 
easy to exercise that prudent after-watchfulness which is 
an indispensable requisite in fixing and holding the impres- 
sion made. In going into the stall, the trainer should give 
the horse an apple or two, or something he likes, to win 
his better nature. It is also important that the horse be 
worked or driven enough to keep him a little sore or tired. 

Above any other class of horses, stallions seem the best 
able to determine the strength of character of a man from 
his actions ; and in approaching them in the stall it is al- 
most fatal to success to show any timidity, or weakness in 
voice or manner ; whatever the feeling of doubt, nothing 
but the most perfect confidence and firmness must be shown. 
Fencers always look each other in the eye to see an in- 
dication of the intended movement, and to be ready to ward 
off the attack. In the same manner are the intentions and 
movements of the horse in a great measure revealed. In 
approaching a vicious horse in a stall, a fixed, determined 
expression of the eye and manner wiU sometimes so dis- 
concert him that he will stand undecided what to do until 
approached and made helpless. The usual course to pur- 
sue is about as follows : When within reach of the horse, 



APPEOACSmG A STALLION. 



801 



look him firmly in the eye, and say, " Get around ! " or any 
other word of command, in a way to make him feel your 
power. If his eye quails, approach ; if not, stand still. It 
may he a duel of a few minutes to determine which will 
give up. Should he yield, approach softly, midway be- 
tween his head and quarters, so as to keep him, as it were. 




Fig. 313.— Method of placing the hand, and bringing it quickly to the 
head, in approaching a vicious stallion. 

undecided and unbalanced. If standing too near his quar- 
ters, he is liable to kick ; if too near his head, to strike or 
bite. The point is to keep him undecided until the shoul- 
der is reached, then pass the hand quickly up the neck to 
the ear, thence down, grasping the nose-piece of the hal- 
ter. He is at such a disadvantage now that unless very 
violent he cannot do harm. Should he, however, attempt to 
strike or bite, grab the mane at the shoulder with the other 



302 STALLIONS. 

hand, and so keep the head turned straight from you. But 
should he prove too much, the onlj alternative is to get out 
of the way. Presuming, however, that he is under good con- 
trol, the point now is to disable him. Have ready a cord, 
throw the doubled part over the neck and pass over the lower 
jaw ; bring the other part down through the loop tight, and 
tie into a single hitch. Now put on another cord, and if nec- 
essary tie up one leg to prevent kicking, get him out of 
the stall and subject him to treatment, modifying it accord- 
ing to the case. 

Should the horse show a cool, daring expression of eye, 
with ears thrown back, and standing sullenly, and seem- 
ingly indifferent, no chances should be taken. Such a horse 
will wait until within reach, when he will kick, strike, or 
bite, so quickly that no firmness or quickness of action 
would save a man. In such a case, resort to any means 
most convenient and safe that will give sufficient control to 
enable subjecting him to the regular treatment. If no hal- 
ter or bridle is on, the following course may be adopted : 
Put on a halter as described in Colt Training, tie up the 
head, put on a bridle, or one or two War Bridles, get him 
out on a sodded place, and subject him to treatment. Of 
course if the stall or room is large enough, he can be sub- 
jected to treatment there. 

The point of making the horse sufficiently gentle to be 
handled and used while free from rigging or restraint of 
any kind, must be thoroughly established as a foundation 
upon which this after-treatment must be based. Unless 
this can be done, the horse cannot practically be made safe. 
In my experience with these cases I make the lesson, if I' 
can, a quick, overpowering rush of force, which breaks up 
all resistance, and makes him submit before he warms up, 



A BAD CASE. §0S 

being careful not to strain, bruise, or over heat the horse. 
But should he warm up, and fight with such energy that I 
cannot force his unconditional submission, I aim to carry 
the treatment simply far enough to make him sore. This 
is sometimes difficult to do, as these horses, especially the 
cold-blooded cases, may be so sullen in their resistance they 
cannot be made sufficiently sore to do any good. At any 
rate, the lesson must be repeated to the point of producing 
unconditional subndssion, or there cannot be any hope of 
success. The horse should be tested the day after treat- 
ment, when the effects can be best discerned. If the least 
vestige of resistance be found in him, it must be imme- 
diately overcome by more or less repetition of treatment. 

The worst horse of this character I ever found was a 
blind, gray stallion in Pittsburg, Pa. This horse was a 
strong-muscled, heavy-boned fellow, with a remarkably fine 
head,and was a perfect model in points of strength and endur- 
ance. Ordinarily, he showed every indication of being nat- 
urally gentle, but by bad training had become vicious, and 
when roused or excited was a perfect bull-dog. Though 
compelled to handle him at a great disadvantage in a barn, 
I succeeded, after much effort, in making him sufficiently 
gentle to handle for the time, which was in reality a great 
feat. 

Sometimes stallions, especially of this character, are 
liable to develop very peculiar whims in the way of affection 
or hatred. I have frequently found horses that would be 
perfectly gentle toward certain persons, but entirely un- 
manageable toward others. I will give here one very 
marked case, formerly owned by me. A ten-year-old Gif- 
ford-Morgan stallion, owned in Bath, Steuben Co., N. Y., 
was of a fine, intelligent, docile disposition naturally, but 



'604> 



STALLIONS. 




EFFECT OF TEEATMBNT. 



305 



when excited he showed an under-current of great will and 
courage. He was raised in Gowanda, N. Y, I bought him 
for the purpose of training him to driye without reins, and 
succeeded in making him drive very nicely, holding him 
gentle. For a stallion, he was singularly free from all in- 
clination to bite, and other habits of viciousness. Later, I 
sold this horse, with another, for breeding purposes, to Fred 
Arnd, a hotel keeper in Bath, N. Y. Mr. Arnd (who was 




Fig. 315. — The Fred Arnd Horse as seen by the writer four years 
after being subdued. 

somewhat intemperate in his habits) one day perceiving 
the horse acted as though about to bite, whipped him se- 
verely. Happening in the stable at the time, I found Arnd 
in the horse's stall, and greatly excited from the exertion of 
kicking and whipping. I told him emphatically that he 
must not whip and abuse the horse in that way. If he did, 
he would surely in a short time make him so vicious he 
could do nothing with him. I advised him at once to give 
the horse some apples, and handle and caress him until over 
the excitement. But he disregarded the advice, and about a 

20 



306 STALLIONS. 

week afterward I again heard a row in this stall. Proceed- 
ing to the place, I found Arnd with hat off and face red 
with passion, in the act of whipping and kicking the horse. 
I again told him in the most positive terms that he could 
not whip and abuse the horse in that manner without spoil- 
ing him, and that he must on no condition repeat it. As 
before,' I urged him to treat the horse kindly, give apples, 
etc. ; but, as before, my advice was disregarded, and as the 
result, in less than a week afterward he came to me and 
said, " That horse is so Adcious no one can go near him. I 
am afraid he is completely spoiled. If you can and will 
break him for me, I will do anything you require." 

I found the horse perfectly furious, with eyes like balls of 
fire, and ready to jump at any one who might approach. 
He did not seem to have the least recollection of me, and 
it was with the greatest difficulty I was able to get him out 
of the stall, and across the street into my tent. I sub- 
jected him first to Second Method, following with First, 
which he resisted furiously. I threw him fully a dozen 
times before he gave up the contest, when he quieted down, 
and seemed to fully recognize me. I talked to him and 
caressed him now for some time, walking around with him, 
when he would follow me around perfectly gentle. I now 
directed him to be placed in the care of a quiet, careful 
man, and instructed him to make it his business to visit the 
horse frequently in his stall, give an apple or two each 
time, caress and talk to him, and on no account to allow 
Arnd to go near or in his sight until I advised it. The 
treatment was continued two weeks, the horse acting just 
as gentle as before. Now while standing at his head I di- 
rected Arnd to come inside the door of his stall. The 
horse knew him instantly and became greatly excited, but 



EFFECT OP TEEATMENT. 307 

I managed, however, to keep him quiet while Arnd was 
near him. 

I soon afterward left the place, but at the expiration of 
about four years I again visited that part of the State pro- 
fessionally. At Merchantsville, in the same county, I was 
surprised to find this horse. I was informed that at the 
moment Arnd would come near, the horse would become 
furiously excited and seem ready to jump at him, but was 
perfectly gentle toward others. Convinced that he could 
not manage him, he sold him to his present owner, a resi- 
dent of Merchantsville, who used him for breeding purposes 
and for a family driver. 

The man told me his wife could hitch up the horse and 
drive him as well as any old family horse, and he could 
take him out in the street by the halter and play with him 
with all the freedom he could with any pet horse. " But," 
added he, " were he to see a bald-headed man, it would 
make him so furious he would kill him if he could get at 
him." Mr. Arnd was bald headed, and the horse retained 
his peculiar repugnance to such an appearance. I took him 
into the - streets by the halter, and found he was just as 
obedient to the whip as when I owned him, over four years 
before. 

In training this horse to drive without reins, I was com- 
pelled a great many times to punish him with the whip 
very severely, possibly as hard if not harder than Arnd 
did, but I was always careful never to leave him smarting 
from the effects of such punishment. I at once gave him 
apples, etc., until cool and quiet. It is impossible to teach 
a horse to drive w^ithout reins, without at times whipping 
quite severely. This must be done to force obedience to 
the whip, or the horse cannot be relied upon. 



308 



STALLIONS. 



GoDOLPHiN Arabian. 

In concluding this chapter, I will give the romantic 
story of the famous " Godolphin Arabian," the most noted 
sire of the English thoroughbreds, copied from a story by 
Eugene Sue, published in Wallace s Monthl//, 170 Fulton 
St., N. Y. The editor of this journal, who is very careful 
authority, states in conclusion as follows : — 

" As a matter of course we must not expect historical 




Fig. 216.— Godolphin Arabian. From Stubb's picture. 

accuracy in a romance, but there are not many things in 
this that practically need correction." 

I include a portrait of this famous horse, taken from 
Stubb's picture. 

" The story opens with an English philanthropic Quaker, who, 
while on a visit to Paris, in 1732, received letters from home, an- 
nouncing that his only daughter had gratified his fondest hopes 
by making him a grandfather, and, according to the custom of 
his sect, he resolved on evincing his gratitude to the Giver of all 
good for the fortuitous event by performing some charitable ac- 
tion. In his progress on this work of mercy — it was a dreadful 



GODOLPHIN AEABIAN. 



309 



cold night in the latter part of January — he saw a great crowd 
at the foot of the Pont Neuf , and a horse, in a heavy cart, loaded 
with wood, attempting in vain to draw his burden up the ascent, 
while the carter was urging him on with brutal severity. All 
the efforts of the animal to move forward were ineffectual, and, 
driven to desperation by the lashings of his hard taskmaster, he 
plunged with so much violence, the ground being extremely slip- 
pery, that he fell on his knees, and was unable to rise. The carter 
renewed his blows, and with horrid imprecations seized the bit of 
his bridle, attempting to force him up, but with such violence that 
the mouth of the poor animal was filled with blood. With violent 
efforts, he at last got on his legs, but only to fall again, when, 
turning on his side, he lay 
trembling, covef ed with sweat, 
and his eye reproachfully fixed 
on his inhuman tyrant, who, 
unmoved by his piteous groans, 
kicked him repeatedly on his 
streaming nostrils, till every 
one cried ' Shame ! ' but all 
were, too much afraid of his 
known brutality to further 
interfere. Their horror was 
increased when the fellow, go- 
ing to the tail of his cart, took 
out a handful of straw, and 
twisting it into the form of a 
torch, and lighting it, was in 
the act of applying the brand 
to the poor animal's foot, when the compassionate Friend inter- 
fered, arrested his arm, and exhibited fifteen louis-d'ors spread on 
the palm of his hand, offering the whole as the price of his pur- 
chase. Although he had treated the execrations of the multitude 
with contempt, the ' timber-merchant ' was not proof against the 
glittering coin, and crushed the torch under his foot. The pur- 
chase was agreed upon, the horse disengaged, and the parties pro- 
ceeded to the driver's stable, to complete the contract. 

" The carter, mollified by receiving the money, so far beyond 
his estimation of the vahie of the animal, said he ought, injustice, 
to tell the purchaser that the horse was the most malignant and 
ungovernable brute he had ever met with, and so dangerous to 
approach that he was obliged to put his corn into his manger be- 
fore he had entered the stable; that, from his vicious habits, he 
had bought him for a mere trifle, having given only twenty crowns 
for him; that ' the beggar,' when in the humor, would draw well, 
but when he had a heavier load than usual, would play him the 




Fig. 217. — Godolphin Arabian. From 
Stubb's picture. By J. C. Beard. 



310 STALLIONS. 

same trick he had done that day, and nothing but extreme sever- 
ity would induce him to do his work. He was also so cunning as 
to utter groans on the slightest punishment, and then he would 
put on the appearance of submission till he was released from the 
vehicle, when he would kick and run at him with open mouth, 
in the most savage manner. The only way he could subdue him 
was to keep him constantly in the shafts, so that he could not lie 
down, either by night or by day ; and he placed both horse and 
cart under a shed, for protection from the weather, the only sleep 
he got being as he stood. Once a week (on Sunday) he permitted 
the Moor to release him, and then the three, Agba, Scham (for such 
was his Moorish appellation), and the cat, seemed in a state of 
ecstasy. ^ 

" The carter goes on to state that an uncommon attachment 
subsisted between the three ; that the Moor doated on the horse, 
having accompanied him to Paris from Barbary, and that the cat 
would jump on his back, purring continually, the horse whinny- 
ing in evident gratification at his presence. He then proceeds to 
say that he had purchased the animal from one of the royal cooks ; 
and, on the Quaker expressing his astonishment that an animal so 
meager should ever have belonged to the king, the wood-man pro- 
ceeded to state how he came into his possession. 

'' Scham was employed in the most menial capacity, drawing 
a covered wagon from the Paris cuisine to that of Versailles, but 
was so vicious, and so savage with other horses, especially if any 
mares were in sight, that they could do nothing with him, and the 
comptroller ordered him to be sold. No one, however, would pur- 
chase him, not only fi'om his known character, but because he con- 
sumed more food than he was worth ; and he was at length given 
to one of the cooks, to get rid of him, on condition that he would 
find him sustenance. It appears, however, that his new master 
kept him on short commons; for he actually attempted to make a 
meal of the cook, having seized him with his teeth, and bitten a 
large piece of flesh through his clothes. This was enough for the 
cuisinier, who determined to get rid of the vicious brute. He ac- 
cordingly sent for the wood-merchant, and ofiered to sell him the 
horse for thirty crowns, but eventually parted with him for 
twenty. 

"M. Sue then proceeds: The driver spoke truly; the horse so 
lately put to the drudgery of the wood-merchant's heavy cart, was 
one of eight Barbary steeds, which the Bey of Tunis had sent as a 
present to Louis XV., in 1731, in consequence of having concluded 
a treaty of commerce, which was effected in his majesty's name, 
by M. the Viscount de Manly, a commander in the king's navy. 

" On the arrival of these animals in Paris, they, for a short 
time, attracted the attention, or rather the curiosity, of the king 



GODOLPHIN AEABIAN. 311 

and his court; but, from their wild appearance, their restless and 
haughty deportment, their lean and angular forms, rendered more 
so by the fatigue of the voyage, they were received into the royal 
stables with perfect indifFei'ence, and, subsequently, with contempt. 
M. Sue accounts for this from the prevailing fancy of his majesty 
for the great Norman horses, both for war and the chase, and 
more especially for those bred in Suffolk — short in the loins, well 
knit together, going close to the ground, and termed thickset. As 
the king's name is a tower of strength in war, so in fashion his 
taste is paramount, and these Barbary horses excited the greatest 
raillery and scorn — their deep chests, their .small mouths, their 
beautiful, nervous, and bony forms, so typical of the character of 
this famous race, and religiously preserved pure in the East, were 
all lost on king, courtiers, equerries, and grooms. 

" Of the eight Tunisian slaves sent from Africa by the Bey, 
Agba alone remained, the other seven having returned to their na- 
tive country. The poor mute was so attached to Scham that even 
the natural affection for home was disregarded, and, though ex- 
cluded from the royal stables, he hovered about their precincts for 
the purpose of seeing his favorite whenever he was suffered to pass 
the door, living on the charity of those who pitied his unhappy 
condition. Since he had become the property of the wood- carrier, 
the Moor had taken up his quarters in the shed for the sole pur- 
pose of enjoying the society of the Barb, and obtained his food by 
begging, for he (the carter) refused to encourage him, believing 
that his ^witchcraft rendered the horse so vicious. He suffered him 
to remain in the shed, as he was much amused to see the evident 
affection subsisting between the mute, the horse, and the cat. On 
his return home, Agba and Grimalkin were always in waiting, 
the former squatting down disconsolately, with the cat curled up 
by his side. On permitting him to give the horse his food, the 
Moor would rise up in ecstasy, embrace the animal, take his head 
between his hands, jump on his back, then dismount, and creep 
under him ; by all of which endearments the horse seemed as grat- 
ified as himself. He would whinny, and appear to talk to him, as 
if rejoiced to see him. On the other hand, if the Moor was not in 
the shed, he became furious, stamped with his feet, laid back his 
ears, and attempted to attack the carter. On one occasion the 
Moor was not in the shed, but returned when he Avas chastising 
the horse, and was so exasperated that he seemed inclined to at- 
tack him, but he showed him his shouider-of-mutton fist, and the 
demonstration was sufficient. 

" When the Quaker, who had been struck with their mutual 
attachment, told the Moor that he had purchased the horse, and 
that both should accompany him to England, the poor fellow 
showed the most extravagant joy, threw himself on his knees at 



312 ' . STALLIONS. 

the feet of the Englishman, and placed his foot on his head, in to- 
ken of submission, and showing that he Avould be his slave for life. 
He removed the cumbrous harness with which Scham was capari- 
soned, in a sort of frenzy, believing that the malign influence had 
departed from his companion. The hard- stuffed collar covered 
with blue sheepskin, the rusty hames, the ponderous wooden sad- 
dle, and the thick bridle, were all dashed to the ground in the 
greatest indignation ; then, drawing from one of the pockets of his 
cloak a horse-hair glove, he began to rub down Scham, after the 
manner of the Moors of Tunis (who never use a currycomb), the 
friction of which soon renders glossy the handsome and fine skin 
of the horses of the pure race. Scham, thus unharnessed, could 
be better examined by the Quaker. He was a brown bay, about 
fifteen hands high, with a white spot on the off hind leg. He was 
terribly thin ; his sharp bones seemed to pierce through his skin, 
naturally so fine and delicate that he was covered with wounds 
by the friction of the heavy collar and shafts of the cart. The 
dust and dirt which covered the poor animal rendered his coat, 
formerly so bright and smooth, quite dull and rough, and his mane 
was matted with filth. Notwithstanding his distressing and mis- 
erable appearance, a judge of horse-flesh would still have admired 
his bony form ; and on seeing his deep chest, — sure indication of 
capacity and strength of lungs, — it was evident that Scham could 
perform, without the slightest 'difficulty, a lengthened course. 
Judging also from the construction and strength of his well-pro- 
portioned limbs, his speed must be prodigious ; and his large hams, 
flat and so singularly tapering off, seemed steel springs to his iron 
frame. These, added to his uncommon beauty, and his graceful 
tail, flowing like a plume of silk, proved him to be an illustrious 
descendant from the purest caste. 

"The Quaker shortly after returned home, accompanied by 
his. purchase, his mute attendant, and the faithful cat. 

"Arrived in England, Scham is located at Bury Hall, the res- 
idence of the Quaker, situated about fifteen miles from London, 
on the banks of the Thames; and in a short time, through the 
care of Agba, and plenty of nutritious food, he recovered his pris- 
tine form, so that no one could have believed him to be the 
miserable object so cruelly treated at the foot of the Pont Neuf. 
Agba was feared and despised by the other domestics, for they had 
not the Quaker's tolerance ; but they respected him for his attach- 
ment to the horse and devotion to his master. 

"A cloud, however, soon lowered on the destiny of Scham: 
his vicious disposition began to show itself, and he would suffer no 
one to ride him but Agba. He had defeated all the attempts of 
one Tom Stag, a rough-rider, to reduce him to obedience, and had 
put him on one occasion in peril of his life, by almost crushing his 



GODOLPHIN AEABIAN. 313 

leg against a wall. He had also thrown his master's son-in-law, 
Dr. Harrison, and this was deemed the climax of ingratitude by 
the benevolent Quaker, who, in consequence, determined to part 
with him. 

" Scham was then sold to one Rogers, landlord of the Royal 
Lion, a large inn near Charing Cross, to whose stables he was, 
forthwith transferred; the Quaker making Agba the offer of re- 
maining in his service, or receiving a sum of money. The mute, 
determined not to lose sight of his companion, accepted the latter, 
and, accompanied by the cat, followed Scham to London, and took 
an obscure lodging as near the inn as possible ; for Rogers, having 
the same impression as the Paris carter, that the deviltries of the 
horse were owing to the malignant influence of the Moor, had re- 
jected all further intercourse. Every attenipt to enter the stable 
was indignantly resented, not only by Rogers, but by the subor- 
dinates in his employ, and Agba had the satisfaction of seeing two 
brought out on shutters, and carried to the hospital, from the 
wounds received from the 'born devil,' the appellation Scham had 
obtained from his new master. Agba, refused all admission to 
the stables, was almost in despair from being unable to obtain a 
sight of his favorite; and, determined at all hazards to accomplish 
his purpose, he scaled the walls which environed the stables, and 
being caught by Rogers, was committed to Newgate on a charge 
of attempted burglary. Here, unable to express his innocence, he 
sunk into despair, although his mild demeanor had excited the pity 
of his jailers. The Quaker's housekeeper, being called to the 
prison by a relative who had come under the ban of the law, and 
learning the cause of the poor Moor's incarceration, proclaimed her 
conviction of his innocence, and gave so much of the history of 
Scham, and Agba and his cat, as to produce the greatest commis- 
eration for the unfortunate mute. 

" His case coming to the ears of the young Lord Godolphin, 
who was struck with the attachment of the horse and rider, he in- 
terested himself in his behalf, had an interview with the Quaker, 
learned his history, purchased the horse from Rogers, who with- 
drew his prosecution, and poor Agba and Scham were sent off' to 
Gogmagog Hall, there to be treated with the same indifference and 
contempt that Scham had experienced in the royal stables of 
Louis. XY. 

"Hobgoblin was then the lord of the ascendant in the se- 
raglio of Gogmagog ; and so cruelly, in A.gba's opinion, was Scham 
neglected, that he often wished the Barb enclosed within the den 
of Rogers, where death might have relieved him from his misery. 
The progeny of Hobgoblin had been hitherto successful above all 
their competitors; and Lord Godolphin having purchased Roxana, 
by Flying Childers, out of Monica, for 600 guineas — a great price 



314 STALLIONvS. 

at that period — he resolved to form a new dynasty in the future 
generation of Roxana and Hobgoblin. 

"M. Sue then gives the liaisons of Roxana and Scham; how 
Roxana refused the caresses of Hobgoblin, and, when she 
neighed indignantly at the approach of the Lord of the Harem, 
she was answered by one so loud and shrill that the hills re-echoed 
the sound ; that Roxana, recognizing the impassioned cry, expressed 
the most lively astonishment and delight, and at the moment 
Hobgoblin was brought into the paddock, Agba opened the door 
of the stable, and Scham rushed in frantic energy upon his rival. 
A tremendous battle ensued, Hobgoblin being eventually driven 
from the field, and Scham triumphed both in love and. victory. 

"Lord Godolphin, exasperated at the defeat of his project, im- 
mediately ordered the culprit off to a stud-farm at a distance of 
sixty miles, where he was turned out to seek his food on an almost 
barren common. 

"Two years had elapsed, when Agba was aroused from the 
most painful reflections by approaching sounds, and was no less 
surprised than gratified by a courier announcing his lord's com- 
mands to return to Gogmagog; and in less than one hour, Agba, 
Scham, and the cat were on their way to the Hall. 

" The cause of this recall is explained in a few words. Lath, 
the produce of Scham and Roxana, showing some fine racing 
points, the prejudices of Lord Godolphin and his stud-groom began 
to subside. With a force and vigor beyond his years, he excelled 
all his rivals in their exercises; and the progeny of the Darley 
Arabian, brought from Aleppo in 1717, having proved successful 
in all their contests with the indigenous breed, people began to 
wonder that they had so long neglected the source of so much 
beauty, and purity of blood. In addition. Lath had beaten all the 
descendants from the hitherto renowned Hobgoblin. 

"The author then jumps over four years, and, in 1738, three 
sons of Scham, which had beaten everything opposed to them, 
were engaged in influential stakes at Newmarket— Lath in one 
for five-. Cade in one for four-, and Regulus in one for three-year- 
olds. Lord Godolphin, partaking of the now generally prevailiag 
opinion in favor of the Arabian blood, which in every instance had 
defeated all competitors, felt so confident that the three descendants 
of Scham would carry off the respective stakes, that he resolved 
that the sire should partake of the triumph of his sons; and the 
formerly despised Barb was led on the heath, arrayed in purple, 
and mounted by Agba in magnificent Oriental costume, two 
grooms on each side (for safety) holding him by silken cords at- 
tached to his golden bridle. On his appearance, the air resounded 
with acclamations. The predictions of Lord Godolphin were 
realized; and each of his horses having won the prizes for which 



GODOLPHIN AEABIAN. 315 

it had contended, the spectators appeared in a state of ecstasy, and 
cheered with renewed applause, which Scham received with dig- 
nified composure, as if conscious of his claims to distinction. As 
to Agba, he was in a state of absolute hallucination — the malign 
star had disappeared, and the glory of his horse was established. 
They returned to Gogmagog in triumph ; and to prove his admi- 
ration of the wondrous powers of the Barb, Hobgoblin's splendid 
stable was appropriated to Scham, and the words, Godolphin 
Aeabian, which tho noble lord had given to Scham, were engraved 
in letters of gold on its marble pediment. 

" This cf lebrated horse died at Gogmagog, in 1753, aged twen- 
ty-nine. Grimalkin had preceded him to the tomb, and Agba did 
not long survive." 

Mr. Wallace here remarks : " And thus ends Mr. Eugene 

Sue's biography of Godolphin Arabian," adding, as stated 

at the commencement, that as a matter of course we must 

not expect historical accuracy in a romance ; but there are 

not many things in this that practically need correction. 

He also adds the following statement : — 

" The origin of the horse is really unknown, and all that can 
be said on this subject is mere conjecture. It is a remarkable fact 
that this horse attained the very highest pinnacle of fame twenty 
years after his arrival in England, and yet there was no one, even 
in that brief space of time, who went to the labor and trouble of 
tracing and determining his true history. The same old story is re- 
hashed over and over again, that Mr. Coke brought him from 
France, but nobody has sought to know from whom or how he 
came into Mr. Coke's possession. He was called an Arabian, 
but the best judges were inclined to the view that he was a 
Barb. In forming this opinion, however, they were governed en- 
tirely by his conformation, which is only a rule of approximate 
accuracy, and never safe to state with certainty. The old records 
say that Mr. Coke gave him to Roger Williams, keeper of the 
Saint James Coftee House, London, and that he presented him to 
the Earl Godolphin. The great success of the Darley Arabian, some 
twenty years before, had made Eastern blood very popular at this 
time ; and it has always been a conviction with mc that Earl Go- 
dolphin knew more about the blood and origin of this horse than 
any of the writers who have undertaken to enlighten the world 
about him, or he never would have bred Boxana and his other 
good mares to him, untried as he then was. The story of the cat 
was not invented by the novelist, but is founded on truth. Mr. 
Pick, in his Turf Register, after enumerating a few of the more 
prominent of his get, remarks that ' every superior horse of the 
present day partakes of his valuable blood.' " 



CHAPTER X. 



MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 

To Catch a Horse. 

If a young colt is frequently petted by scratching the 
mane and tail, giving apples, etc., care being used not to 
arouse his fear or resentment in any way, instead of run- 
ning away when approached, he will soon wait or come for- 
ward to be petted and rewarded. It is frequently the case 
that ladies who are in the habit of petting horses, are able 
to approach and catch them in the field without the least 
difficulty, while they cannot be approached at all by men. 
The reason is that women are more kind and gentle in their 
treatment, and always ready to caress the horse, and re- 
ward with a little sugar, or something else of which he is 
fond ; neither do they take advantage by whipping or other 
abuse ; while men, who are frequently in the habit of ston- 
ing the horse, or hitting him with the halter when turning 
him out, cannot go near him, or succeed in catching him 
only after the most prolonged effort, on account of the fear 
and repugnance such treatment creates. 

When a small boy, I was presented with a young don- 
key. Of course I was delighted, and would occasionally 
put oats in my pocket, and feed her from my hand. This 
soon made her such a pet that as soon as she saw or heard 
me, no matter how far distant, she would whinny and run 
toward me, put her head under my arm, and try to get her 
nose into my pocket for the oats with which I rewarded 

(316) 



TO CATCH A HOESE. 317 

her. If treated in like manner, the horse can be made to 
come to his master, and follow him with affection and con- 
fidence. 

If the colt or horse is wild, and tries to puU away or keep 
the head out of reach when approached, put on the War 
Bridle, and train him until he will follow promptly. ' But 
if so wild or vicious as to require general treatment, sub- 
ject to either method most suitable until submissive, when 
make the point of teaching to follow very thoroughly. 
This will be easy enough, but we wish to do still more, 
namely, to be able to walk up to the horse from some dis- 
tance without his running away, also to make him come at 
command, and stand quietly to be haltered. The course I 
usually pursue is as follows : After making the horse fol- 
low, lengthen the cord to seventy-five feet or more, and let 
it drag on the ground. If I have not enough of the reg- 
ular kind of rope, I attach a piece of bed-cord. The War 
Bridle should be changed to the Second Form, to prevent 
its slipping out of the mouth, with the part over the neck 
placed well back. There is no difficulty in approaching 
the horse within the length of the cord (twelve or fourteen 
feet) used in the training ; but when beyond this distance, 
and especially when the horse once learns he is beyond 
control, ho will soon learn to keep out of reach. On this 
account it is necessary to make the cord long enough to 
convince him that he is within control when beyond this 
distance. Step away twenty or thirty feet, and walk up 
quickly toward him. If he turns to run, simply catch up 
the cord and jerk the head around ; then approach, caress 
him, give apples, etc., and walk away again. So repeat^ 
going a little farther off at each time, until at the end of 
the cord. It is necessary, of course, to make this lesson 
thorough, until the confidence of the horse is won. In 
some cases it is advisable to go through with the form of 



318 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 

haltering and unhaltering, leading out into the field, walk- 
ing toward him and back, singing, whistling, and occasion- 
ally giving him an apple, etc. 

In training Turco, referred to in " Personal Experience," 
after getting him so he would come to me when thirty or 
forty feet away, he at one time jumped through a gap in 
the fence into an adjoining field, where he raced around for 
some time, enjoying his freedom. Though I was consider- 
ably annoyed, I did not try to catch or run after him, as 
this would only reveal my weakness, and confirm him in 
the habit of running away. I simply walked around as 
though indifferent, until he became tired and went to graz- 
ing, then, although I approached him cautiously, when 
within a few feet of him he again ran away. He repeated 
this several times. I strolled around until finally able to 
get near enough to catch him by the mane. To attempt 
any punishment now would only undo a great deal of past 
good treatment. Instead, I scratched his mane, rubbed his 
nose, walked around a little, and finally told him to come 
along, when he followed submissively back to the yard. 

I now put on the War Bridle, Second Form, and, as be- 
fore explained, attached nearly one hundred feet of cord to 
it, which I let drag on the ground. I then went on with 
the lesson. As he came near the gap, he again shot through 
like an arrow. I simply caught up the cord, and stopped 
him so quickly as to almost throw him down. Finding 
himself fairly c-aught, he came back directly upon being 
called. I repeated the experiment, and three times in suc- 
cession he jumped through the gap ; but at each time I 
jerked him back when about seventy-five feet away. Af- 
ter a few repetitions, no matter how near he went to the 
gap, he would not attempt to jump through. I now petted 
and rewarded him by giving apples, etc., as usual. I re- 
peated the lesson several times afterward in the yard and 



CRIBBING. 319 

open field, to thoroughly fix the impression, and he never 
forgot it. I finally trained him so I could let him run up 
the street twenty rods or more, and then could call him 
back to me instantly at the crack of the whip. The secret 
of this was the reward I always had for him. 

In turning a horse out to pasture he should never he 
started violently when the halter is taken off. There 
should be no effort to deceive by carrying oats in a pan, or 
rubbing ears of corn together, etc., and when allowed to 
come near enough, to rudely grasp, halter, and lead him 
off. The reward of corn or oats should be promptly given, 
with other expressions of kindness. Indeed, it is in most 
cases best to commence by occasionally going into the field 
and carelessly approaching the horse, and giving him some- 
thing of which he is fond, until his confidence is won. A 
sensitive horse always partakes in a great measure of the 
character of the owner ; if tricky and deceptive, the horse 
will become so= The only way to make the horse honest 
and confiding, is to be honest and kind in his management. 

Cribbing. 

This is a habit for which there has been no practical 
remedy. Many claim that it is caused by indigestion, and 
that by neutralizing the gas generated in the stomach in 
consequence, a horse will cease to crib. Mr. 0. H. P. 
Fancher, especially referred to in tho chapter on " Sub- 
jection," was the most pretentious advocate of this the- 
ory; but I have never known or heard on any reliable 
authority of any case being cured by giving medicine. 
It has also been claimed that cribbing is caused by the 
teeth pressing too closely against one another, the remedy 
for which is sawing between them. I have known of a 
great many cases treated in this way, but without any 



320 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 

success, except that in some cases the habit is prevented 
for a time by the soreness produced by the filing. Driv- 
ing wedges between the teeth has also been resorted to, 
the effect of which would be such intense pain as to pre- 
vent the horse from cribbing for some little time. It can 
be seen that all these pretended remedies are practically 
of no account. 

It is a little singular that a horse will not crib on any- 
thing that is lower than the knees, consequently a sure 
way to prevent the habit is to tear away the manger, and 
feed the horse from the floor or from a basket. 

To break up the habit, the only practical remedy is 
punishment, as hereafter explained. 

When in Bath, N. Y., many years ago, I noticed that a 
horse when cribbing at a post in the 
street contracted the larynx and 
muscles of the neck forcibly during 
the act. Instantly it occurred to me 
to make the experiment of putting 
such an adjustment upon the throat- 
latch as would prevent it by the pain 
it caused. I went to a harness-shop, 
procured some six-ounce tacks, drove 
Pig. 218.— a horse in the them through a strip of leather about 

act of cribbing. i in • i j i in i ±i 

nail an inch apart, and filed the 
points sharp and of equal length. I laid this bit of strap 
on the inside of the throat-latch, so as to bring the point 
of the tacks under the larynx, and kept it in place by 
winding each end and center with a piece of waxed end. 
I now buckled the throat-latch long enough so that it 
would not touch the neck when in the act of eating or 
swallowing, yet so close as to bring the points of the tacks 
sharply against the muscles of the neck at the least at- 
tempt to crib, and stood by to notice the effect. The first 




CEIBBING. 



321 




Fig. 219. — The halter adjusted for cribbing. 



time the horse tried to crib, he was hurt so severely that 
he jumped almost from the ground. In a short time he 
tried it again, 
with the same 
result ; the third 
time he only gave 
a little nip, and 
then stood qui- 
etly for some 
time. I now had 
him changed to 
another location, 
with a man close 
by to note the 
results. He re- 
ported that the 
horse did not crib 
any more during 
the afternoon. I have broken several horses of the habit 
by this means, and think if the adjustment is made right, 

and continued long 
enough, it will be 
found to be the best 
means yet discovered 
of breaking up this 
habit. The point of 
success will depend 
upon the care with 
which this is kept" ad- 
justed. If there is large muscular development of the 
neck, the strap must be buckled shorter than when the neck 
is well cut out, as it is termed. Make the reproof severe 
at first ; then keep the tacks so adjusted as to touch sharply 
when the habit is repeated. If the throat-latch is not on 

21 




Fig. 220. — Throat-strap with tacks. 



322 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 

a line with the to^D of the head, the tacks cut the jaw a 
little below the junction of the head with the neck. If 
this is kept on a few days or weeks, and then taken off 
and again adjusted carelessly, there is likely to be a failure ; 
for if the horse finds he can crib once with this on without 
hurting himself, he will be encouraged to repeat the effort, 
and will punish himself severely to do so. But if punished 
at first, and this is kept where it will hurt keenly at the 
least attempt to crib, and is left on a few weeks, it ought 
to be successful. It will not do to buckle a strap around 
the neck. The adjustment must be made to the strap of 
the halter, and the halter must fit nicely to the head. It 
must be made like a bridle, with brow-piece, so that it will 
not shift or move on the head. A boy broke five horses of 
this habit a few years ago; but he became careless, and 
failed on the sixth. There is, once in a while, an old horse 
of determined character that will crib in defiance of this or 
any other means. Such cases are, however, rare. A 
young, nervous-tempered horse will yield readily to the 
treatment, and but few horses will attempt to crib while 
wearing a muzzle. 

If a strap be buckled rather tightly around the neck, a 
horse will not crib while it is on. This is, however, but a 
simple preventive. There is also the objection that grad- 
ually the horse may learn to resist, to overcome which, the 
strap has to be buckled tighter, which of course obstructs 
the circulation, and causes inflammation, thus producing se- 
rious and permanent injury. If a strap is used for this 
purpose it should be fully three inches wide, and buckled 
just tight enough to prevent the inclination to crib. A 
wide strap works a great deal better than a narrow one, 
and is less liable to do harm. 




i>tJTTlNG THE TONGUE OUT. S23 

WiND-SuCKINa. 

Sometimes a horse sucks wind without the habit of 
cribbing. I include a cut of a form of bit to prevent this, 
for which much is claimed. A practical horseman of ex- 
perience gave me the point. He claimed that it would 
work perfectly in preventing the inclination to crib and 
suck wind. I include it on the strength of his statement. 
Procure a piece of gas-pipe about seven inches long. Drill 
a hole across each 
end, through which 
put in rings, as seen 
in cut; next, drill 
four or five holes, as 
shown in cut. The 

theory is that the gas ^^^- ^^l.— Bit made of gas-pipe for preventing 

cribbing and wind-sucking. 

m the stomach can 

not escape through the mouth on account of its being closed, 
and that instinctively the horse will bite on something to 
open the mouth and throw off the gas. With this bit in 
the mouth, the air passes through the small holes in the cen- 
ter, and out through the ends. 

I would be glad if those interested would give it a trial, 
and report to me. It is safe and inex]3ensive. The gen- 
tleman, referred to positively assured me that in several 
cases known to him it worked with perfect success. 

Putting the Tongue out of the Mouth. 

If the tongue is put over the bit, have a piece of thin 
sheet-iron, about two and a half inches wide and five inches 
long, with the ends rounding, and the edges filed smooth. 
Drill two small holes (see cut) near each edge, at the cen- 
ter, and fasten to the bit. Shorten the cheek-pieces of the 
bridle, so that the bit is drawn well up in the mouth. This 



§24 



MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 



piece of iron renders it impossible for the horse to get the 
tongue over the bit. The simplest and best way of prevent- 
ing this is to have the smith make a mouth-piece, as repre- 
sented in the cut below, 
which is seen to be bent up, 
and comes so high in the 
mouth that the horse cannot 
get the tongue over; this 
works perfectly, and is not 
inconvenient to drive with. 
It should be bent up at 
least 2f to 3 inches, come 
well out to the cheek-pieces, 
and be filed smooth to pre- 
vent cutting or chafing the 
The tongue is some- 




FiG. 222. 



-Manner of putting the 
tongue out. 



For such cases 



and hammer them 



mouth, 
times, but not often, put out under the bit 
the following treatment will work well : — 

Get three medium-sized bullets, 
out to about an inch 
and a half in length. 
Drill a small hole 
through the end of 
each. Tie one to the 
center of the bit by a 
little piece of wire 
through the joint. 
Attach the others to 
the bit about an inch 
from the center (one on each side), so as to play loosely. 
(See cuts.) 

When this bit is in the mouth, these extra arrange- 
ments will so disconcert the horse that in his struggles to 
get them out of the way, he w^ill forget to put the tongue out. 




Fig. 223. 



PAWmG IK STALL. 



325 



The next best way is to buckle a strap around the nose 
so that the mouth cannot be opened. This, of course, pre- 
vents the tongue being put out, and in a short time the 
habit will be broken up. 

Pawing in Stall. 

A horse will not paw much unless he can hear the 
noise ; so a good 
method of prevent- 
ing this habit is to 
muffle the foot by 
tying apiece of 
blanket around it. 
Next, by attaching 
a piece of chain or 
clog to the foot, as 
follows: Get a piece 
of chain about ten 
inches in length 




run 



Fig. 234. 

a short strap through one of the 
end links, and buckle 
it around the foot 
above the fetlock ; 
or a piece of light 
chain can be fastened 
to a small block, and 
attached to the foot 
in the same manner. 
When the horse at- 
tempts to paw, the 
clog or chain rattling 
against the foot so disconcerts or hurts him that he will re- 
peat the movement but a few times. 




Fig. 335. 



326 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 

Kicking in Stall. 

Kicking with one foot against tlie side of the stall is a 
habit which many horses are liable to learn, and, like paw- 
ing, it is sometimes exceedingly annoying; therefore it is 
important to be able to prevent or overcome it. In the 
first place, it is rare that a horse will learn to kick against 
the side of the stall if it be large and roomy. Large stalls 
are, in all cases, very important for the health and comfort 
of the horse, as well as for convenience in going around 
him. The simplest and best way of preventing this habit 
is to pad the side of the stall, which will prevent the sound 
of the striking, when the inclination to kick will soon be 
overcome. Or, attach a clog or piece of chain to the foot, 
as explained for pawing. 

Another method is to tie some thorny bushes together, 
and suspend them over the place kicked, so as to swing 
freely when struck. When the horse kicks, the rebound 
will bring the bushes against the legs, so frightening and 
hurting him that the attempt to kick will be repeated but 
a few times. A clog may also be hung over the place 
struck or kicked, which, when struck, would react in the 
same way, and thus prevent a repetition of the habit. 
Making the stall wide, and padding the sides as explained, 
are the most simple and practical methods for preventing 
this habit. 

Getting Cast in the Stall. 

This is also caused by being confined in a stall that is 
too small. When the horse rolls and turns upon his back, 
he is so cramped and restrained by the narrow walls that 
he is unable to roll himself back to regain his feet. Some- 
times the division of the stall is so short that in the effort 
to roU, his body comes across, and in contact with, the 



JUMPING OVEE FENCES. 327 

ends, and, the head being held fast by the halter, it is im- 
possible for him to get up; so a large, roomy stall would 
of itself be almost a complete remedy. The simplest way 
to prevent it is to tie one end of a piece of rope or cord to 
the beam or flooring directly overhead, and the opposite 
end to the head-piece of the halter back of the ears, leav- 
ing it just long enough to allow the horse to reach his nose 
to the ground. As he lies down and tries to roll, being 
unable to bring the top of his head to the ground, he is 
disabled from rolling. A small ring should be stitched to 
the top of the halter, to which the strap or cord can be eas- 
ily and securely fastened when necessary. 

Some horses are liable, by pawing, to get the fore foot, 
and in some cases even the hind foot by scratching the head 
with the leg, over the halter-strap, thereby becoming tan- 
gled and helpless in the stall. The halter should be hitched 
higher than common, though long enough to permit the 
horse to lie down easily. 

Jumping over Fences. 

Every dairyman knows that a cow or ox will not at- 
tempt to jump a fence, pull it down, or run, while a board 
is over the forehead, attached to the horns in front of the 
eyes ; this simple means will usually work well upon cattle, 
but will not do upon a horse, because it gives too much 
freedom to see over the nose. 

If a horse or mule, put on a halter that fits well to the 
head — a five-ring halter is best. Next find a piece of 
thin leather (an old boot-leg will do), about as long as the 
head, and from four to five inches wider than the head is 
at the eyes. Form it same as in cut, with a string attached 
at each corner. Attach the upper corners by the strings 
to the halter, where the brow-piece is attached to the 
cheek-piece. Tie the cords attached to the lower corners 



328 MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 

back of the jaw (being careful to leave freedom enough for 
the jaws to act when eating). Let the ends now pass 
over the throat-latch, and make fast. The horse is simply 
disabled from looking ahead or over the nose, which will 
disconcert him sufficiently to prevent jumping or throwing 
the fence down. If an ox or cow, attach the upper corners 
to the horns, and pass the strings around the neck instead 
of over the throat-latch. 

Tender Bitted. 

Use a large, smooth mouth-piece, with leather cheek- 
pieces, so as to let the bit rest about an inch lower than 
usual in the mouth. Next try winding the bit with a piece 
of chamois-skin which has been saturated with tannin or 
alum, to harden the mouth. 



"^j 



Kicking Cows. 

Many years ago a man who attended my class in Her- 
kimer Co., N. Y., reported to me that he had a very bad 
kicking heifer, and as a matter of experiment he put the 
War Bridle on her and gave her a sharp lesson with it, as 
directed for breaking a colt to lead and drive. After a 
few minutes' treatment, he found that she stood perfectly 
gentle to be milked, and he had no more trouble with her. 
Some time afterward, while in the dairy counties, I gave 
this point to my classes, and I have since had a good many 
especially bad, kicking cows brought forward to be exper- 
imented upon, the treatment in all cases proving successful 
in a few minutes. 

One of the most amusing incidents that occurred in 
making these experiments was at a little town near James- 
town, N. Y. At the time I carried canvas, and after get- 
ting through the regular experiments, a notoriously bad 



KICKII^G COWS. 



329 



kicking cow was brought in for treatment. As usual, a 
few pulls of the War Bridle made her stand to be milked 
as gentle as could be desired. While the class were amus- 
ing themselves over the ease with which the cow was 
controlled, and somewhat at the expense of the owner, 
with the cord still on, she suddenly, and without warning, 
rushed through the wall of the canvas, almost tearing 
down the whole tent, and 
ran through the main 
street of the town to- 
ward home. Every dog 
in the street took after 
her, making a most ludi- 
crous scene, no one ap- 
pearing more amused 
than the owner. He 
came into the class on 
condition that I would 
make the cow gentle to 
be milked at home. He 
never came back to report upon the success of the exper- 
iment. The course of treatment is about as follows : — 

Put on the War Bridlo, Second Form, pull right and 
left a few times ; then stand off at a safe distance, and pull 
a little upon the teats. If there is resistance, punish ; so 
repeat, until there is no resistance. Sometimes the teats 
are sore, and the pain caused by milking is very severe. 
Take Goulard's extract 2 oz., sulphate zinc 2 oz., lard 2 
oz., and rub upon the parts a few times. This is a favorite 
remedy among dairymen for sore teats, cake in the bag, 
etc. This prescription I know to have been sold for fifteen 
dollars, and it is prized by dairymen in Northern New 
York, where the medicine is sold especially for their use. 




Fig. 336. — Arrangement of the cord for 
leading a cow. 



330 



MISCELLANEOUS HABITS. 



To Lead a Cow Easily. 

Tie a rope around the head under the horns, bringing 
the knot over the ear. Now bring the rope forward and 
under the ear, again forward over and under the cord. 
By pulling now, the cord will tighten around the ear, hurt- 
ing so severely that the cow will lead freely. 

To Force a Horse on the Trot. 

During one of my early tours in Ohio, a horse-trainer 
came one hundred and fifty miles to attend my class. He 

stated that there was 
but one point in which 
he was interested, and 
if I could help him on 
that, it was all he de- 
sired. The point was, 
how to force and keep 
a horse on the trot 
under excitement. 
On this point he was 
very much interested, for the reason that he made the train- 
ing of trotters his business, and it was indispensable that 
he should be able to do this. Also, because he knew of a 
mare that could trot very fast, but when driven in company 
with other horses, or excited in the least, she would break, 
and could not be made to trot, and on this account was re- 
garded worthless as a trotter. He could buy her at a very 
moderate figure, and could make a big thing on her if he 
could break her ; but he did not wish to purchase her un- 
less he felt confident of success in her management. 

This was a new point to me ; but on the impulse of the 
moment I advised him to try the Breaking Rig as shown 
by cut on page 180, at first to work her slowly and gently 




Fig. 827.— To change a horse's gait. 



foeci:n'g to teot. 331 

until accustomed to it ; then gradually push her under ex- 
citement, cracking the whip, etc., and then driving her with 
other horses, gradually working up in same manner with- 
out restraint of rig. 

I had noticed when driving with this rig that a horse 
must either walk or trot ; for the instant he struck a run, 
both legs coming back at the same time shortened the cord 
so much as to tangle and hurt severely, and consequently 
it must work in this case. 

He went home, bought the mare for $375, made the 
experiment, and was successful beyond his expectations, 
soon being able to put her under the whip, and drive her 
under any excitement, with other horses, at the top of her 
speed. Within three months he sold her for $1500. Hap- 
pening to meet me some time afterward, he gave me the 
above facts, at the same time stating that he then had an- 
other horse of the same character on which he expected to 
do equally well. 

The gait of a horse can be changed from pacing to trot- 
ting, or from trotting to pacing, by passing the cord or strap 
from the hind foot to the opposite fore foot — through rings 
in the belly-band for trotters — and from hind to fore feet 
direct for pacing. (See cut 230.) This will not, however, 
be found to be of much practical value. 




CHAPTER XI. 



TEACHING TRICKS. 

In this chapter I give the portraits of my old group of 
trained horses and ponies, whose performances were re- 
garded with such great interest by all who witnessed them, 
that for a number of years I was compelled to give an extra 
exhibition daily for the benefit of ladies and children, for 
which a regular admission fee was charged ; and it was uni- 
versally conceded that these exhibitions were more inter- 
esting than those of any circus. The performances of Blind 
Billy were regarded as especially remarkable, from the fact 
of his being totally blind. He is, without question, the 
most remarkable performing horse that has ever been ex- 
hibited in this or any other country. I give a very fine 
portrait of this remarkable horse, sketched by a leading 
artist. 

The details of teaching a few tricks, which I give in 
this chapter, will be of special interest to farmer boys, who 
may desire to train their colts in this way. A horse seems 
more intelligent and tractable when trained to perform a 
few simple tricks, such as telling the age, kissing, bowing 
his head, kicking up, turning right and left, or following 
with the whip, etc., all of which any intelligent boy can 
easily train a colt to do. 

In training a colt or horse to perform these tricks, there 
should be no hurry, or effort to teach more than one thing 
at a time. Make the lesson short, and repeat until tbor- 

(333) 



DETAILS OF TEACHING. 



83S 



!X! 

a 

X 

o 

CO 

o 
f 

o 

•Tl 

o 

w 

o 
to 
o 

-a 

o 

50 

I— ^ 

O 

o 
w 

CO 




334 TEACHING TEICKS. 

oughly learned, when another can be taken up, but do not 
continue the lesson long enough to excite or confuse the 
horse. 

To Follow BY the Whip. 

One of the simiolest and most interesting tricks to teach 
a horse is to follow at the motion of the whip, without bri- 
dle or halter. It is even quite useful, as it teaches a horse 
to follow at command from one part of the barn to another, 
or to come out of his stall without attempting to get away. 
Full details of teaching this trick are given in the chapter 
on " Colt Training." 

To Nod his Head, oe Say Yes. 

To teach a horse to bow, or nod his head, prick him 
lightly on the back with a pin, and continue until in his ef- 
fort to avoid the annoyance he drops his head ; then in- 
stantly stop the pricking, and caress him. Repeat the 
pricking until the head is again dropped, when caress and 
give him something of which he is fond. Continue to al- 
ternate in this way with the pricking and caressing until 
at the instant a motion is made toward the back, or even 
to take a pin from the coat, he will drop his head. 

To Shake his Head, or Say No. 

To teach a horse to say No, prick him lightly on the 
top of the shoulder with a pin until he shakes his head, 
when stop and reward him. Repeat the pricking until at 
the least motion toward the withers the horse will shake 
his head. 

To Tell his Age. 

To teach a horse to tell his age, prick him lightly on 
the back part of the leg until, to avoid the annoyance, the 



DETAILS OF TEACHHiTG. SSo 

foot is lifted, or there is an effort to paw ; for this, stop 
and caress him. Repeat until the least motion toward the 
leg will cause him to paw the ground. 

In teaching this trick, the body is naturally bent a lit- 
tle while in the act of pricking the leg, and by repeating, 
the position' will soon indicate to the horse that he must 




Fig. 229.— Blind Billy. 

paw. This position is to be maintained until he paws four, 
five, or six times, or as many times as he is years old, 
when the position is changed, and the pawing ceases. 

To Kick Up. 

To teach a horse to kick up, simply prick him on the 
rump with a pin until there is an inclination to kick up, 
when, as before, stop and caress him. Repeat until the 



336 



TEACHING THICKS. 



least motion toward the rump will induce him to kick up ; 
then touch with the whip, and repeat until at the mere 
motion of it he will kick up. 

These tricks may be made quite interesting by talking 
to the horse somewhat as follows : '• Tommy, I want you 
to tell how old you are ; will you do it ? " and signal for 
the horse to shake his head, as if refusing. Then exclaim, 
as if surprised, " Oh, you can't tell your agd, I suppose, 
without being paid for it ! Will you do it if I give you a 




Fig. 230. — Blind Billy running after and catching his trainer when 
playing Blind Man's BufE. 

lump of sugar?" and signal for him to nod his head. You 
can now signal for him to tell his age, and when he has 
done so, it gives him an air of sagacity which is very amus- 
ing and interesting. Again, you may ask, " What will you 
do to one who does not treat you well?" then signal for 
him to kick. His prompt obedience, of course, indicates to 
the spectators that he understands what is said to him, 
when in reality he is only obeying the signals which have 
been taught him. The nice point lies in giving the signals 
in such a manner that they will not be noticed or under- 
stood by the spectators. 



DETAILS OF TEACHIjS^G. 337 

Teaching to Kiss. 

Kissing is a very simple trick to teach a horse, and it 
adds greatly to the interest of those already explained. 
Stand facing the horse, with the right side turned partly 
toward his left shoulder, and let him take a piece of apple 
from your hand which is held toward his mouth. Bring it 
nearer each time, and finally let him take a piece in the 
same manner from between the lips. When he does not 
reach forward promptly to take the piece of apple from the 
lips, prick him with a pin at the point of the shoulder. 
Repeat until he gets the idea of avoiding punishment by 
bringing his mouth to that of the trainer when desired. 
Now put the apple farther into the mouth, which will com- 
pel him to open his lips to get it. Commence lessening 
the size of the apple, finally giving it to him as a reward 
after he has performed the trick of bringing his mouth to 
that of the trainer. This will teach him that by doing this 
he will escape punishment and receive reward. 

To Lie Down and Sit Up. 

A horse is taught to lie down or to sit up principally 
by means of the whip or bridle, as follows : Tap the horse 
smartly across the shins until he will drop upon his knees. 
This method, however, requires a good deal of care and 
judgment, or it will occasion needless pain and punishment 
before the horse is made to submit. I will give the follow- 
ing method, which, though slower, is better calculated for 
amateurs : — 

Tie the bridle-reins into a knot back of the neck, throw 
your strap over the back, under the body, and tie to the 
near foot, below the fetlock. Now pass the right hand well 
over the back, and take a short hold of the strap. Cause 
the horse to step toward you, and pull the foot up. Then 

32 



3S8 



TEACHING TRICKS. 




Fig. 231.— Bliad Billy kicking up. 

the left, at the same time 
pressing down and from you 
firmly with the right, until 
the horse will lie down. Now 
pass the end of the strap 
through the ring of the bit, 
draw through gently, step 
over the neck, and as the 
horse attempts to get up, pull 
him back, until he lies quiet. 
Rub and caress him, and af- 



pass the left hand around the 
reins, pull back and down 
upon them in such a manner 
as to turn the head a little 
to the off side, at the same 
time pulling down steadily 
but firmly on the strap over 
the back with the right hand. 
As the horse goes down, 
gradually pull the near rein, 
so as to bring the head to 




Fig. 233.- 



- Blind Billy walking on 
his knees. 



ter lying a few minutes, say, " Get up, 
sir ! " Repeat in this way a few times, 
until the horse will lie down readily. 
Then while holding him on or near the 
knee with the strap, hit him on the shin 
of the other with a small whip, until he 
will bring it under and lie down. After 
a while he can be made to come on his 
knees and lie down by simply pulling 
the head down a little and hitting the 
leg with the whip, at the same time 
saying, " Lie down, sir ! " repeating un- 
til the horse will lie down to the motion of the whip. 




Fig. 238.— Blind Billy 

in his great act of 

walking erect. 



DETAILS OF TEACHING. 



339 



To Sit Up. 

When the horse will lie down promptly, put on him a 
common collar, and while down take two pieces of rope, 
each about ten feet in length, tie the ends around the hind 
feet, carry them forward between the fore legs, and bring 
them once around the collar. Now step on his tail, take 
the bridle-reins in the right hand, while holding the ends 




Fig. 334. — Tommy, Sketch from life. 

of the ropes firmly in the left. Give a little jerk on the 
reins, and say, " Get up, sir ! " When the horse throws 
out the forward feet and springs to raise himself on the 
hind feet, he finds himself unable to complete the effort, on 
account of the hind feet being tied forward under him, and 
so brings himself in a sitting position. Instantly step for- 
ward, holding the ropes firmly, rub and caress the head and 
neck a little for a few seconds, then as you see the effort 
to keep up becoming tiresome, let loose and say, " Get up, 



340 TEACHING TEICKS. . 

sir !" By repeating in this way a few times, the horse will 
soon learn to sit up when commanded, without being tied. 

To Throw Boys. 

To teach a horse to throw boys, first make him kick 
up as before explained. Then have plenty of straw on the 
ground, put a boy on his back, and while holding the halter 
make the horse kick up sharply by pricking, or touching 
him with the whip. The instant he kicks up, have the boy 
throw himself forward over the shoulders, for which give 




Fig. 235. — Tommy in his vicious act defending the ring. 

the horse a caress and a piece of apple. Repeat until he 
will, at the motion of the whip, make an effort to get the 
boy off. When he has done this, put on a larger and 
stronger boy, so that he must make a greater effort to get 
him off. Watch the point carefully, and see that the boy 
comes off when the horse makes an effort to throw him, 
otherwise he will soon become discouraged. By persever- 
ing in the treatment, he will soon learn to throw the most 
expert rider. But it will be noticed that he will make a 
greater effort sometimes than at others. When he does not 
seem to work well, put on a poorer rider, and work up again 
gradually. When the horse makes a particularly good 



DETAILS OF TEACHING. 



341 




Fig, 336. — Tommy as the model 
riding pony. 



point, give him apples, and caress him, for encouragement. 

It is important now to teach the horse to throw his 

rider only when commanded, or at a signal. To do this, 

when the boy is on, lead 

the horse a short distance 

around the ring, and then 

signal for him to throw. 

Repeat in this manner, also 

letting him go around alone 

with the boy on his back, 

until he will go on a sharp 

trot or run, and throw when 

commanded. 

I trained a pony to throw 
so expertly that he would 
at times turn a man or boy over in a double somersault, ana 
bring him down squarely upon his feet. The best throw- 
ing pony ever exhibited in this country is admitted to be 

"Tommy." (See cut 234.) 
He has been exhibited in all 
the principal places in the 
North, and although the best 
riders, from the bare-back cir- 
cus-rider to the mustang- 
trainer on the plains, have 
tried, no man has OA^er been 
able to sit squarely upon his 
back one minute after the 
horse was signalled to throw 
him. His performances in 
this way have been regarded as wonderful. He will even 
carry two boys upon his back for a while, and then at the 
motion of the finger throw them both. This sometimes 
afforded a good deal of amusement. First, if a boy was in- 




FiG. 237. — Tommy in his great act 
of throwing. 



342 TEACHING TRICKS. 

dicated to him as being good, he would allow him to ride 

as long as he wished, and then to safely slide off "behind 

down to the ground. Then another boy would come who 

perhaps used tobacco, or had some other vice, when the pony 

would throw him immediately. Again, if there was a 

^^^^ sharp political campaign, a 

yi|Wi^ democrat and a republican 

^^w/m^^ ^^^ would mount him at the 

«^^S^ same time, and the one who 

^^'^^^^^^ ^^^^\ could ride the longer time 

^m m^\M Ml^ 'Im whI ^^^-^^ declare his party the 

^**&>*^^^^^^ formances of these ponies, 

Fig. 338. — Tommy as the gentle pony. • n x i i 

especially the expertness 
with which Tommy could throw a rider, I give some ex- 
tracts from the press : - 

" Last night a large number of our leading citizens, by special 
invitation, were present at Prof. Magner's exhibition on Champlain 
street. 

" The first exercise was performed with blind Billy, a pony, 
stone blind. The pony sat down at a word from his master, and 
walked upright on his hind legs several times around the ring. A 
hankerchief was thrown down in the ring, and the pony ordered 
by his master to find it. After walking around a few minutes, 
the pony came to a stand and seized the article in its mouth. Sev- 
eral other interesting tricks were performed by this blind pony, 
but the most laughable scene took place when the spotted wild 
horse. Tommy, was introduced. He presented every appearance 
of a wild steed, and ran restively about with distended nostrils and 
fiery eye, his mane bristling like the quills of a fretful porcupine, 
but at the approach of his master he became as tame as a lamb. 
Every one was invited to try their equestrian skill on Tommy, 
and all who tried were thrown to the ground, tenderly, but in the 
twinkling of an eye. Mr. Magner offered $100 to any one who 
would ride Tommy one minute. Several tried, but none were re- 
warded with success. One ambitious gentleman threw off hat, 
coat, and vest, and said he ' would be d — ^d if he didn't ride him,' 



DETAILS OF TEACHmG. 343 

Tommy was too much for him. He was thrown several times, 
and finally concluded that he had better let Tommy have his own 
way." — Cleveland Leader. 

"Fun on the Paeade. 

''The parade yesterday morning presented such a lively scene 
as has not been witnessed for some time. The occasion was Che 
exercise of some trained horses by Mr. Magner. Straw was plen - 
tifully strewn on the ground, and expectation was high while the 
arrangements were going on. A cordon of boys and men were 
arranged, a rope placed in their hands, and a ring formed around 
the straw, into which soon pranced the first animal. This one cut 
up all sorts of circus capers, the most notable and most heartily 
applauded feat being the dexterous unseating of a small colored 
boy, who had the hardihood to allow himself to be placed astride 
the animal. Next came a totally blind animal, which performed 
miraculous antics at bidding. 

" The last feature was the crowning one. A spotted horse 
was let into the arena amid the plaudits of the vast assemblage 
present on the ground, and the Reform Club, which appeared en 
masse at the windows. After various gesticulations by the horse, 
a challenge was sent to the multitude for some one to mount. A 
larger darMey essayed the task; but no sooner had he pronounced 
himself 'ready,' than spotty raised his hindermost legs, lowered 
his head, and L. D, went careering through the air. ' Golly, 
boss ! dat hoss can't do dat again ; ' and so up he went again, to be 
treated the same way, only more so. A fairer complexioned au- 
ditor then attempted it, but he was treated in like manner. In 
fact, it is quite impossible for any one to remain seated when that 
horse takes a notion to unseat him. The prompt unseating of 
these two worthies so amused the multitude that Mr. M. thought 
they had had fun enough for one day, and so announced the show 
over. 

" His class in this city was a large one, numbering over forty 
members, comprising our leading citizens, all of whom acknowledge 
the superiority of his system over those of other trainers who have 
visited this locality. 

"His power over untamed horses is said to be marvelous." — 
New-London (Conn.) Evening Gazette. 

"A Wonderful Perfoeming Blind Horse. 

"Among Prof. Magner 's fine troupe of horses is one that is 
blind. This beautiful pony — for he is a beauty — is a wonder. He 
seems to understand every word said to him, and will perform the 



344 TEACHING TEICKS. 

most difficult feats with an ease and rapidity that is surprising. 
He will go to any part of the ring, find and bring a handkerchief , 
take it from his leg, or any part of his body, go lame, go right or 
left, back, go ahead, sit down like a dog on either side, squeal like 
a pig, roll over, walk and kick on his knees, put his ears back and 
forward, kiss, with many other tricks, showing the greatest intel- 
ligence and most skillful training. 

" He was not touched with a whip during the whole perform- 
ance. The Professor simply stood at the center-pole, and talked 
to him as he would to a boy. He is, without a doubt, the finest 
and most remarkable performing horse in the world." — Cleveland 
Leader. 

"An Exciting Incident. 

" Mr. Magner's tent is crowded daily to witness the perform- 
ances of his wonderful ponies, and attend his lectures. One of 
these beautiful ponies, among other amusing performances, will 
throw any one from his back. Yesterday, when Tommy was 
introduced, a crack circus-rider came forward to ride him for the 
reward of one hundred dollars. Ha stated that he came to Buf- 
falo to get the money, as he could ride Tommy, or any other hoi\se, 
as long as he pleased. At this turn in afi'airs, a general stir was 
manifested, which culminated in the most intense excitement. It 
was proved that no ordinary man could ride the cunning little fel- 
low, as shown by his performances for weeks. But here was a 
trained athlete, that could turn a somersault on a horse bare-back 
without being thrown ; would it be possible to throw him ? There 
were serious apprehensions that he could not. Mr. Magner stood 
silent a moment, with the reserve characteristic of him, contem- 
plating the intruder, as if to say. You may, perhaps, do it, but not 
if I can prevent it ; while the other stood with folded arms, show- 
ing the most perfect confidence in himself. 

" It was a scene worthy the brush of a painter. The immense 
throng present were hushed into silence, waiting for the contest. 
A signal brought Tommy upon a run. The whip was passed 
around his nose quietly, when the athlete was invited to come for- 
ward, who, disdaining help, lightly bounded upon the pony's back ; 
but before he had time to say Jack Robinson, Tommy commenced 
a iSeries of gyrations that would astonish an Indian, and sent his 
man fully six feet into the air. It was beautifully and grandly 
accomplished; but would he, could he, do it again? 

" The trial was made, and, as before, the pony went into the 
air with the quickness of lightning, and, after a little more pro- 
longed efifort, sent his man heavily to the ground. But the con- 
test was not yet over. All the desperation that pride and confi- 



DETAILS OF TEACHING. 345 

dence could excite seemed to be now called into the actions of the 
man for a final test. He mounted more carefully, and, with a 
grasp of iron, awaited the onset. It soon came ; for Tommy, seem- 
ing to be now conscious of the task upon him, twisted and turned 
and jumped as if a demon, his eyes flashing fire, until, with a 
tremendous bound, he sent the man high in the air from his back, 
this time fully vanquished. It was a grand performance. Many, 
with feelings of intense admiration, crowded forward to caress the 
noble little fellow, while Mr. Magner seemed as proud of his pet 
as if he had won a kingdom. It was the finest and most exciting 
exhibition we ever witnessed." — Buffalo (N. Y.) Courier. 



To Walk upon his Hind Feet. 

To teach a horse to walk upon his hind feet, put on the 
First Form of War Bridle, and while holding a short whip 
in the right hand, with the left give little sharp jerks upon 
the cord, which will throw the head up. At each inclina- 
tion to do this, touch him under the jaw with the whip, 
and encourage until he will raise the fore feet from the 
ground and stand straight. When he learns to stand up 
step forward of him a little, and ask him to come. If he 
tries to come down, touch him sharply under the jaw to 
keep him up, and repeat until he makes an effort to walk 
in this position, for which caress and reward. A lesson 
should not be continued longer than a few minutes, and at 
first should not be repeated more than twice a day. By 
perseverance in this, way, a horse will soon learn when he 
gets up to balance himself, and take two or three steps for- 
ward. 

This is a trick some horses cannot be made to do, be- 
cause they have not strength enough in the loins and hind 
legs to get up and walk. " Blind Billy " is wonderfully 
strong in this respect. He frequently walked twice around 
a thirty-four-foot ring without coming down, and without 
being touched. This was the greatest performance of the 
kind I ever knew^ but the secret of it was the strength of 



346 TEACHINGS TEICK8. 

his back and quarters. One of the most interesting tricks 
that "Blind Billy" does is squealing at command. He 
first squealed by chance, when he was put in the same po- 
sition again, and made to repeat it. The same is true of 
" Gifford's " groaning. He first groaned by chance, and 
was then made to do it afterward. 

To Walk upon his Knees. 

To teach a horse to walk upon his knees, first teach him 
with a whip to go down upon his knees, then pull him ahead 




¥lG, 239. — Tommy in his vicious act — chasing a boy out of the ring. 



.a little by the halter, until he will make an effort to walk 
in this position. At first he will make an effort to get up, 
but he must be forced back again until he learns to keep 
down and make an effort to come ahead. There should be 
plenty of soft sod or straw on the ground to prevent hurt- 
ing the knees. It requires patience to teach this trick, but 
once started, the horse will soon learn to walk as far as 
desired. 

To Chase a Man out of the Ring. 

To teach a horse to chase a man out of the ring, train 
him first with a whip, then step away from him a Httle, 



DETAILS OF TEACHING. 347 

and make him follow, for which reward him. When he 
will chase you across the ring, turn short around and face 
him. He is now to come straight up to you without biting ; 
but so long as you run from him, he is to run after you. 
The proper course is to run out under the ropes, and when 
he follows you, reward him. An intelligent pony willlearn 
to do this very quickly. 

Driving without Reins. 

Twenty years ago, driving a horse without reins was 




Fig. 340. — Turco and Gifford, as driven without reins. 

regarded as one of the most interesting feats of training 
ever exhibited. People would come from all parts of the 
country, often as far as twenty miles, to see a spirited stall- 
ion driven to a carriage without bridle or reins, — turning, 
stopping, backing, driving fast or slow, etc., by the motion 
and control of a whip. Yet it is one of the most simple 
feats §f training imaginable. The idea of this method of 
training after a time becoming quite generally known, so 
many common horses were trained in this way it soon lost 
its novelty. It is, however, so interesting a feature that 
I will give the full details of its management : — 

First, put on an open bridle, with the reins resting 



348 TEACHING TEICKS. 

loosely upon the neck. Provide yourself with a straight 
buggy whip having a straight or bow top. Stand opposite 
the back, grasp the rein just short enough to take up the 
slack, but not tight enough to pull on the head. Now with 
the whip commence tapping lightly about at the center of 
the off shoulder, when the horse will bring his head around 
a little to avoid the annoyance. By pulling now slightly 
upon the rein, he will step around to the right, when caress 
him and give an apple, etc., and so repeat until he will step 
around promptly when touched with a whip. Now go 
around opposite the hip, holding the rein moderately tight, 
and touch the shoulder, as before, with the whip. When 
he steps around, caress. So repeat until he will come 
around promptly at the motion of the whip alone. Next, 
go to the opposite side, and so repeat until he will step 
around in either direction desired. 

The next step is to teach him to stop at the motion of 
the whip. With the horse in a corner well up against the 
wall, stand on the near side well back toward the hip, and 
bring the whip gently up on the back of the head, so that 
the lash will reach over upon the fore head. Tap lightly 
at first, then a little harder until he will step back a little, 
for which instantly caress, and repeat until he will go back 
promptly. 

It will be necessary now to provide a whip sufficiently 
long that while standing at the hip or tail, it will reach the 
head, so that in moving, when the whip is raised, the horse 
will instantly stop. If he does not, he can be hit sharply 
to compel him to do so. Repeat in this way until he can be 
stopped or forced back under any excitement. 

The next step is to turn him right and left as if driving 
with reins. To do this, grasp the tail with one hand, and 
with the other bring the whip to the shoulder again, and 
tap it as before until he will step around. When he is about. 



DETAILS OF TEAOHING. 349 

half way around, bring the whip to the opposite shoulder, 
striking him sharply until he will turn in that direction. 
Simply repeat until he will turn in any direction desired. 

Now get in, and let the reins extend back under you 
upon the seat, but so loosely that they will not bring any 
restraint upon the head. Catch the foot-strap so that you 
can pull the foot up at will. Now repeat the lesson of 
stopping, and starting, and turning either way, until he is 
prompt in his obedience. In the meantime should he try 
to go ahead, pulling the foot up will stop him. The 
reins are on as a matter of convenience, so they can be 
used when necessary. I prefer, however, to give the head 
perfect freedom, and depend upon the foot-strap for safety. 
In my practice of training a horse to drive in this way, I 
repeat the lesson of stopping, etc., a hundred times over, 
until I feel sure the horse is perfectly safe to drive with the 
whip. 

After horses are trained to drive single, they can then be 
put together, and with a very little practice they will drive 
equally as well double. 




CHAPTER XII. 



EQUESTRIANISM.* 

That there is no exercise to be compared with horse- 
back riding is conceded by all well-read physicians, as well 

as by all ladies and gen- 
tlemen who have given 
it a test. One has only 
to look at a person re- 
turning from a ride on 
the saddle to see at once 
the beneficial result. 
The tinge on the cheek, 
and ruddy glow on the 
whole face and neck, is 
a positive assurance of 
the fact. It will prove 
a sure cure for dyspepsia 
in its worst form, if one 
will but persevere in 
the delightful recreation. 
But some one will say, 
'"' Oh, I cannot ride 
horse-back ; it is too vi- 
olent an exercise." And 
why? Simply because 




Fig. 241.— Horseback Kiding. 



* By request of the writer, this paper was furnished by J. W. Robinson, Esq., 
of Portland, Me., a practical teacher of Esquestrianism of many years experience. 
(350) 



PEACTICAL HINTS. 851 

the attempt is made without any knowledge of the art, if 
it may be so called. The fundamental principle of the art 
of learning to ride is to learn one thing at a time, and learn 
to do that well, before attempting to do anything else. 
The first thing to leata is how to sit upon a horse. One 
should become perfectly at home in a saddle upon a con- 
stantly moving horse, so that whether it walks, trots, can- 
ters, shies, or jumps, he will either not lose, or will imme- 
diately regain, his position. The proper seat is a firm one 
in the saddle, with the legs below the knee free, and the 
body above the waist supple and pliable. Whatever move- 
ment the horse makes, whether to the right or left, or tip- 
ping backward or forward, the hips must conform to it, 
while the legs from the knees downward are free to obey 
the rider's will, and the upper part of the body retains its 
balance by accommodating itself instinctively to every 
movement. If the upper part of the body be kept rigid, 
its effect will be to remove the hips from their 23lace in the 
saddle. If, on the other hand, it be flexible, it will yield 
and sway with every movement, and will be left free to 
obey the motions of the saddle. 

In Tommy's act of throwing the boys, described in 
another chapter, whenever a boy or young man would sit 
in the saddle rigidly, with a firm grasp of the mane, no 
matter how strong or supple he might be, the pony would 
throw him with great ease, and with the force of a bullet, 
from his back ; but when a young man came in who would 
sit and balance himself on the pony's back as if with the 
greatest carelessness, harmonizing the motions of his body 
freely with those of the pony in the attempt to throw him, 

was not quite so full in detail on some points as was thought necessary, the author 
has taken the liberty, not being himself a practical equestrian, to appropriate and 
insert instructions from the best modern authorities, being especially indebted to a 
series of papers written by Col. Geo. E. Warring, and published in the American 
Agriculturist. 



362 



EQITESTBIANISM. 



it would frequently require the greatest effort to dislodge 
the rider. 

The position assumed in the saddle should be with the 
weight of the body supported directly under the hips, the 
spine curved inward, and the head and chest thrown back- 
ward. We give two illustrations froin Leach, showing the 
insecure and the secure position in riding. The rider in 




Fig. 243. — An insecure position. 

the first illustration exhibits the greatest caution and tim- 
idity, with his body bent forward, and his whole attitude 
one of rigidity. The second illustrates the freedom with 
which the body may be managed when the seat is secure. 
When a landsman first goes to sea, he finds it extremely 
difficult to adapt himself to the motions of the vessel, stum- 
bling and falling like a child learning to walk ; but with 
practice he soon gets what is termed his " sea-legs." The 
principle is the same in learning to adjust one's self to the 
motions of the horse in riding. 



PEACTICAL HINTS. 



S53 



The learner should make no attempt to guide or manage 
his horse, nor even trouble himself how to mount and dis- 
mount. Let him get into the saddle, turn his toes inward, 
press his knees against the saddle, but not his calves, bring- 
ing the flat of the thighs in the largest contact with it. 
Curve the spine inward, and throw the shoulders back. 




'■■■■i^^e,&' 






Fio. 243. — A secure seat. 

Let the arms hang listlessly by the side. Holding mainly 
by the knees, shift the seat from side to side and from 
front to rear, with as little swaying as possible of the up- 
per part of the body. Continue this practice, no matter 
how long it takes, until the seat is firm, and the learner can 
move in any direction while keeping the spine curved in- 
ward. When the rider has accustomed himself to the slow 

23 



354 



EQUESTEl ANISM. 



motion of a walk, let the speed be increased, until finally 
the horse is galloped with a long bridle rein, under all his 
motions, and the rider feels comfortable and easy, and has 
learned to depend only on his thighs and the flexibility of 
the body to maintain his position. 




Fig. 244. — A good model of riding-horse. 

Having perfectly accustomed himself to the seat, the 
pupil may now put his feet in the stirrups, and learn their 
ase. They should be used as a matter of comfort and con- 
venience, as it is fatiguing to ride with the legs dangling at 
the horse's side. In walking, a gentle support of the stir- 
rups keeps the body from swaying from side to side as the 
horse moves. In trotting, — when stirrups are almost in- 
dispensable, — they permit the horseman to either " rise to 



PEACTICAL HUnTTS; 355 

the trot," or to distribute tiie shock: iu "riding hard" be^- 
tween the feet, the seat, and the thighs, so that it is no 
longer a shock, but becomes a quick, easy movement. Th§ 
stirrup leathers should be so adjusted that the iron will just 
touch the bottom of the feet, giving them support without 
raising their position, while the inner part of the thighs, as 
far down as the knees, are pressing firmly and immovably 
against the saddle, and the legs below the knees hanging 
vertically. 

In ordinary riding it is best to have the ball of the foot 
touch the stirrups, as the play of the ankle-joint gives more 
elasticity to the support. But in galloping or leaping it is 
best to " drive the feet home," and carry the stirrups in the 
hollow of the foot. We consider the wooden stirrup in com- 
mon use in this country to be the safest and best. 

The main office of the stirrups is to rest the legs, while at 
the same time they assist in maintaining a proper position. 
But in case of any sudden start, the knees and thighs should 
be at once performing their duty of grasping the saddle. 
They cannot do this if the weight is thrown too much upon 
the feet. It is also important to learn how to stand in the 
stirrups while the horse is in motion, turning so as to look 
to the rear, to throw the weight first on one foot and then 
on the other, and to assume every possible position rapidly 
and easily; for all this adds to security, freedom, and grace 
in the seat. 

The following is the correct manner of mounting by the 
aid of the stirrups : First, take the reins in your left hand 
just over the horse's withers. Stand with your right side 
to the horse, not too near, and put the left foot in the stir- 
rup. Grrasp the horse's mane with the rein hand, the pom- 
mel of the saddle with the other, give a spring with the 
right foot and vault into the saddle, throwing the leg back 
and over the horse. Now rest the ball of the feet in the 



S56 



EQUESTEIANISM. 



stirrup, and close the knees against the horse to keep a 
firm seat while trotting fast. 

It is impossible to ride really well on an average horse 

without a curb bit; 
but it is impossible 
to ride Avell on any- 
horse unless the 
curb bit is properly 
made and properly 
adjusted. And no 
one can either ride 
with pleasure or be- 
come really a good 
horseman on a horse 
that is in constant 
pain from an ill-fit- 
ting bit. 

The beginner should use the reins of the snaffle only, 
grasping a rein in each hand at a length that will gi^^e him 
command of the horse. The proper manner of holding the 
reins, is, however, in the left hand, the curb reins divided 




Fig. 2i5. — Position in mounting. 





Fig. 246. — Army Bit. 



Fig. 347.— Ordinary Bit. 



by the little finger, the snaffle reins divided by the middle 
finger, the ends of both sets carried up through the hand 
and secured by the thumb, which should be uppermost. 



PEACTICAL HIJSTS. 



357 




Fig. 248. — Holding the reins. 



and pointed to the ears of the horse. By bending the 

wrist to the right, so that the knuckles come uppermost, 

the horse is turned to the 

right. By bending the wrist 

to the left, so that the finger- 
nails come uppermost, the 

horse will be turned to the 

left. There should never be 

tension on the two bits at the 

same time. The horse should 

be ridden upon the curb ; the 

snaffle should be used to fix 

the height of its head, and 

occasionally to take the place 

of the curb to freshen the 

mouth. 

Particular attention should 

be given to having the saddle adapted to the size of the 

person who is to use it. If it is too large for the rider, 

it will not only give him dis- 
comfort, but will increase the 
difficulty of acquiring a seat. 
Invalids, or those not ac- 
customed to horseback rid- 
ing, should select a horse 
that is gentle and fearless, 
easily managed, sure-footed, 
and elastic in action. A 
riding-horse should not be 
used in harness, as this soon 
destroys the elasticity and 

Fig. 249. — Ordinary side-saddle. ,-, r> i • 

smoothness oi action neces- 
sary for easy riding. If the horse is at all vicious and un- 
manageable, he should be subjected to such treatment (as 




358 



■EQUESTEIANISM. 



explained under that head) as will insure his entire docility 
and easy management. This is particularly necessary be- 
fore attempting to ride him in the street. 

Much of the foregoing instruction will apply to ladies 
learning to ride horseback. The lady should so sit upon 
the horse that her weight will fall perpendicularly to the 




Fig. 250. — Position in the saddle 

back of the horse, her face directly to the front, her shoul- 
ders drawn back, and her elbows held to her sides. She 
will permit her body, from the hips upward, to bend with 
the motions of the horse, in order that she may preserve 
her balance. The right knee will hold the upright horn 
close in the bend of the knee. The left foot will be thrust 
into the stirrup to the ball of the foot, and the heel will, as 
a rule, be carried down. But when the heel is elevated, 
the upper part of the left knee should find support in the 



" ' PRACTICAL HINTS. 359 

side horn, and for that end the stirrup leather should be 
given such a length as will permit this. A lady should 
never be mounted on a weak or stumbling horse. 

The reins are to be held in the left hand, as already 
described, and in a line with the elbow. The whip should 
be carried in the right hand, with the point toward the 




i :afei:liujiilliiii!l!l 



Fig. 351. — Good position. 

ground. It takes the place of the right leg of the man, 
and the horse should be trained to answer to its application 
in exactly the same way as to the pressure of the man's 
leg. The horse should never be struck with the whip upon 
the head, neck, or shoulders, as such whipping will render 
him nervous, and may cause him to swerve. 

It does not come within the limits of an abbreviated 
article of this character to give the details for the training 
of a horse to the different gaits and tricks of which he is 



360 EQUESTEIANISM. 

capable under the .saddle, as there are a great variety of 
works imparting this knowledge in full, which are easily 
accessible by those who desire it. With these suggestions, 
and sufficient practice, any one may enjoy this the best of 
all modes of exercise. 

If people would generally adopt horseback riding, they 
would starve out half of our doctors, and would live in the 
enjoyment of much better health than they now do. I 
will give here one of the many cases of restoration to health 
from this exercise that have come under my notice : A 
lady (whose name I will omit) came into my riding-park 
in a hack from her home about a mile distant. I arranged 
a stand so that she could step uj^on it, and sit down in the 
saddle without any effort. I led the horse around at a 
walking pace for about twenty minutes, when she dis- 
mounted quite exhausted, and was taken home. The next 
day she came again in the carriage and took another short 
lesson, and so continued to do -three or four times a week 
for about four months. During this time she gained in 
strength to such an extent that at the expiration of the 
time she rode by car to Boston, a distance of twenty-five 
miles, did some shopping, thence to Cambridge to dine with 
her mother, and then returned home and rode ten miles on 
horseback. At the end of her ride she said to me, " I feel 
no more fatigued than I did this morning when I started 
for Boston." 

This is only one of the many cases that have come un- 
der my observation of regaining health from this exercise. 
Let every one have good 23ractical training if possible, but 
get the exercise at all events, if you cannot have the train- 
ing. 

In corroboration of what Mr. Robinson says on the ben- 
eficial effects of horseback riding, I copy the following par- 
agraphs from a valuable little work on " Horseback Riding 
from a Medical Standpoint," by Dr. Durant, of New York : — 



PEACTICAL HINTS. 361 

" Horseback riding, as we have seen, is one of the most ener- 
getic modifiers of the circulation ; it distributes the blood equally 
to every part of the capillary net- work, giving to each part its 
due proportion, by maintaining a due tension in every part by 
equalizing the temperature; it prevents equally ansemia and hy- 
persemia, and sanguineous stagnation, by the impulsion which it 
gives to the circulatory phenomena, and aids nutrition by the ac- 
celeration of the respiratory and digestive phenomena. It is by 
its effect upon the reactions of the blood to the nervous system 
that horseback ridiug produces such a happy influence. 

"The effect of horseback riding upon the functions of the sys- 
tem, is especially remarkable upon that of digestion. It stimu- 
lates the appetite, excites and perfects digestion, favors absorp- 
tion — in fact, to use a trivial expression, ' it makes the bits go 
down.' These are not the only results of the new energy im- 
parted to the functions which we have studied, all of which con- 
cur in the accomplishment of this special one ; it exercisses a special 
influence upon the muscular fibre of the coats of the stomach and 
the intestines. These viscera may be considered as fairly sus- 
pended in the abdominal cavity, where they are barely held and 
limited in their movements by the folds of the peritoneum. Each 
shock from the horse shakes them and makes them roll, as it were, 
upon each other, and causes the changes in the relations of the 
convolutions of the intestines. These shocks and knocks and rub- 
bings act as a mechanical excitant upon the muscular fibre, which 
in consequence contracts with more energy, preserving, however, 
the peculiar character of the fibre-cells ; that is, of contracting 
slowly and successively ; the action of the fibre being increased 
and the peristaltic contractions acquiring more power, there re- 
sults from it a more intimate mixture of the juices and aliments 
in the stomach, a more perfect chymification of the food, and a 
more prompt and complete absorption of matters ah'cady digested; 
and, lastly, all those which have as yet escaped the process are 
brought into the portions of the intestines where their metamor- 
phosis is effected." 



CHAPTER XIII. 



SUBJECTION. 

In this chapter I wish to embody explanations which I 
could not well give in other parts 5 it may also he considered 
as a continuation of the first chapter. 

The first account I find of any one taming a horse is 




Fig. 252. — The leg tied up, and surcingle on. 

that of Alexander the Great, when a boy of seventeen, 
taming Bucephalus. The story, as recorded, is as follows : 
A horse was offered for sale to Philip of Macedon, who, 
perceiving he was unmanageable, ordered him to be taken 

(363) 



HISTOEICAL FACTS. 



363 




out of camp. Young Alexander, observing that the horse 
was simply frightened by his shadow, took him by the head 
and moved him about so that he could not see it, jumped 
upon his back and let him run. The whole camp was 
alarmed for the safety of the young prince borne oif on the 
furious horse. But nothing could be done, as the horse soon 
distanced all pursuers ; and when, a short time afterward, 
Alexander rode into camp entirely unharmed, with the 
horse gentle and manageable, the surprise and gratification 
of all were great. The horse had simply been allowed to 
run until exhausted, when he became manageable. The 
same method of 
subjection, with 
some sHght varia- 
tions, is still prac- 
ticed by the peo- 
ple of South Amer- 
ica, and by the 
Indians of our Western Plains. On the pampas the horse 
is caught with a lasso, thrown to the ground, his head cov- 
ered with a blanket, when a bridle with a powerful bit and 
a saddle are put on. He is then mounted, the blanket 
pulled off, and the horse in his fear runs or bucks until ex- 
hausted, in his endeavor to throw his rider. He is then 
turned about and ridden into camp, the hair of his tail 
squared off to indicate that he is broken, and he is again 
turned loose. 

The Indians of our Western plains catch the horse with 
a lasso, and with a small hair or raw-hide rope form a noose 
around the lower jaw for a bridle, mount, and let the horse 
run until exhausted. Cold-blooded horses may be subdued 
with considerable success by this means, but those of a 
warm-blooded, courageous nature, if given freedom to run 
in this way, would be liable to go until they dropped dead, 



Fig. 253.— The Leg-strap. 



364 



SUBJECTION. 



or until the constitution was so seriously injured as to ruin 
them. 

Any method of lowering the vitality will make a horse 
gentle, such as physicking, bleeding, tying down, depriving 
of water, food, sleep, subjecting to intense pain, etc., which 
can be carried to any extent desired ; but the trouble is 
that when the horse regains his strength, or recovers from the 




Fig. 254. — The horse ready to be thrown. 

effects of the pain, he is liable to become as bad as be- 
fore. 

By disabling any part of the body, there wiU be pro- 
duced a corresponding sense of helplessness and submission. 
For example, tying one ear down or twisting it is regarded 
by many as quite a secret to make a horse stand to be shod. 
It is quite a trick among many jockeys, in driving a kicker, 
to tie the tail to the crosspiece, or forward by a string to 
the belly-band, having discovered that a horse will not kick 
if the tail is disabled or cannot be raised. It is on this 




HISTOEICAL PACTS. 365 

principle that many headstrong horses can be driven gentle 
by checking the head high. A man named 

who had considerable notoriety as a horse-tamer in England 
nearly one hundred 
years ago, based 
his whole success 
in the management 
of horses upon ty- 
ing up the fore leg, 
when he would 
mount and ride the ^^^- '''-^^^ '^'''-'''''' "'"*'■ 

horse until gentle. Disabling, or tying up both fore legs, 
and throwing the horse down, carried this principle to still 
greater perfection. The first published account I find of 
this method of subjugation being practiced was by a man 
named 

who lived in Stanton-le-Vale, Lincolnshire, England. This 
man had quite a local reputation for his power over horses. 
A correspondent of " Bell's Life," published in London, who 
gave Bull one guinea to teach him the secret, described his 
method as follows : — 

First, buckle a surcingle around the body ; second, tie 
up the fore leg by buckling a strap tightly around the foot 
and fore-arm ; next, attach a strap to the off fore foot, bring 
it over the horse's back, and grasp it firmly with the right 
hand. With the left, catch the near rein of the bridle, and 
pull the head around toward you. When the horse is made 
to step, pull the foot from under him, bringing him on his 
knees, when in a short time he will lie down ; this was the 
whole secret. In the account, the correspondent referred 
to Bull's control of several horses, making them lie down, 
get up, etc., at command. 



S66 SUBJECTION. 

We also learn that about the year 1800 a man named 



c^TJ:iy^:E5EI^, 




fiG. 256.— The Bridle used to prevent biting. 



in Yorkshire, England, 
was quite celebrated for 
his power over horses, 
although he kept his 
method a great secret. 
The following account 
shows that his method 
was the same as Bull's.: 
A correspondent in the 
Veterinarian, named Cas- 
tly, in referring to a cer- 
tain horse given Jumper 
to break, says that in 
ten days he brought 
him home perfectly sub- 
dued, for he would lie 
doivn, and rise again, at 
his command. 

About the same time 
a man named Sullivan, 
better known as 



who lived in Mallow, in the County of Cork, Ireland, had 
quite a local reputation for his power over horses. His 
method of management was to shut himself up in a build- 
ing with the horse to be subdued, until he had him under 
control, when he would open the doors and exhibit the ef- 
fects of his treatment. While the horse was standing 
quietly, he would occasionally put his mouth to the horse's 
ear as if whispering something to him; hence the term 



HISTOEICAL FACTS. 



367 



" WMsperer " Sullivan. Many people, even of intelligence, 
supposed that Sullivan's control was supernatural. Though 
an ignorant man of the lowest class, and addicted to drink- 
ing, he was evidently a shrewd fellow in making the most of 
his secret. It is stated as a fact that the parish priest, 
whenever he saw Sullivan coming toward him in the street, 
believing he was in league with the devil, would cross him- 




FiG. 257. — As the horse is liable to rear and plunge, in his 
resistance to being thrown. 

self and take the opposite side, to protect himself from his 
supposed Satanic influence. 

Sullivan would not reveal his secret, but there is no 
doubt but that his method of treatment was the same as that 
practiced by Jumper and BuU. When exposed to the pub- 
lic, the horse was always sweaty, and exhibited the general 
effects of exhaustion usually produced by this method of 
treatment. According to report, he claimed to have ob- 



368 SUBJECTION. 

tained the secret from a soldier who had been in service in 
America, in return for treating him to a gallon of porter. 

The first man in this country of whom I have any ac- 
count, claiming to have the secret of taming horses, was one 
named 

who traveled in the Southwest. But it was admitted that 
circus men understood and used it long before his time. He 
seems to have kept his knowledge a secret ; for we find 
that but very few obtained it of him, and those only at very 
large prices. 

The next was 

formerly of New London, Ohio. He claims to have traveled, 
when young, through Mexico and Texas, and to have lived 
for some time among the Comanchee Indians. I do not 
know positively whether he learned the secret of Ofiutt, 
but I so inferred. At least, he practiced the method prior 
to 1844, when he was quite a young man, as will be shown 
hereafter. But no great stir was made by any one in this 
field of effort until the advent of 

in England, in 1858. Rarey was the son of a country ho- 
tel-keeper in Central Ohio, at a place called Groveport. 
When of age, he went to Texas, and on his return traveled 
as a horse-tamer. Finally, arriving at Toronto, Canada, a 
gentleman named R. A. Groodenough, an American banker 
and produce broker, who carried on a large stock-breeding 
farm, became interested in his mode of treatment, and took 
him to England for the purpose of teaching the system. 

There were several circumstances which seemed to give 
him immediate notoriety : 1. His being permitted to give 
an exhibition before the queen and royal family ; 2. His 



HISTOEICAL FACTS. 



369 



bold pretensions to being able to know a horse's every 
thought, and to subdue any horse or animal in the world, 
In proof of these claims, he subdued Cruiser so that he could 
handle him with safety before the public. This horse Wa$ 
said to be so vicious that an iron muzzle was kept on him, 
and he was shut up in a building built especially for him. 
He next subdued a horse called the Stafford Stallion, 
owned by the emperor of France, so that he was driven in 
the streets of Paris for two weeks by the side of a mare. 




Fig. 258. — Usual position before being thrown. 

This horse was so vicious that he had killed three men, 
and had been kept confined in a building for two years. A 
still more surprising feat was the subjection of a zebra from 
the zoological gardens of London. 

So great was the interest excited among all classes in 
England by this apparent success, that two thousand sub- 
scribers were obtained to learn the secret, at $50 each. 
But when he came to reveal his method, it was found, or 
claimed, to be based wholly upon disabling and throwing 
the horse, the same as Bull's method, excepting that in- 
stead of bringing the strap which was attached to the off 

2-t 



870 



SUB.TRCTIOK 



fore leg, over the back, it was brought under the body, over 
the surcingle. (See cut 254.) The horse Avas then brought 
upon his knees, and held there until he would lie down, 
when he was handled and caressed until reconciled to the 
restraint and submissive to control. 

i This treatment was so simple, and the change produced 
in so short a time seemed so remarkable, that it was surpris- 
ing, as there was no idea at that time that a horse could be 




Fig. 259. — The horse subdued. 

SO acted upon directly as to change his character. What 
little knowledge there was on the subject was jDOSsessed by 
but few, who kept it a great secret. The submission was 
all that could be desired, so far as the lying down and 
handling afterward while on his feet was concerned, but 
was not by any means sufficient in the management of bad 
cases (which was not explained) to hold him submissive 
afterward in other positions. (See first chapter, "First 
Method of Subjection," also the close of this paper.) 

But over against these achievements were the unpleas- 



HISTORICAL FACTS. S7l 

ant facts that the cases upon which he claimed his reputa- 
tion, out of his hands became again as vicious as before, and 
that Cruiser, for this reason, was finally presented to him by 
the owner. In showing him in this country, as an evidence 
of his previously bad character, Rarey exhibited the big 
iron muzzle which he claimed the horse had worn before 




¥iG. 260. — The first step in the improved method of throwing. 

being subdued by him. I include here illustrations of the 
treatment, which, with the explanation given of it in the 
reference to Bull, will make it sufi&ciently clear to the 
reader. 

Notwithstanding the method was well known and taught 
in this country before his return, there was great curiosity 
among all classes to see Mr. Uarey himself illustrate the 
treatment; yet in spite of the most thorough and oft-re- 
peated trials by himself and others, there was failure to give 
the satisfactory results claimed and expected. 



S'r2 subject! oM. 

Although I could explain the mystery of his success in 
a few paragraphs, yet in consequence of the great miscon- 
ception in regard to it, and to the merits of his claims, I 
consider it necessary to give my reasons for doubting their 
genuineness, as well as the way I was finally able to obtain 
the facts. 

There were several points which to me would not seem 
to bear close investigation : First, if this treatment enabled 
Mr. Rarey to perform the feats claimed in Europe, why would 
it not, upon thorough trial by himself and others, produce 
the same results here upon horses only moderately vicious ? 
Second, Cruiser and the other cases referred to, out of his 
hands became again entirely unmanageable. How was it 
that he could control such horses, while others, using the 
same treatment, utterly failed upon them? These were 
questions which puzzled and misled the public, making 
them believe, as the only reasonable explanation, that 
Rarey had a magnetic or psychological power over horses 
that others did not possess, and which enabled him to con- 
trol them as he wished ; or that he gave them drugs, or 
something that gave him power to control them for the 
time. Another fact : Before going to Europe he made no 
especial reputation as a horse-tamer,* and after dissolving 
partnership with Mr. Goodenough in England, or after his 
return to this country, he made no special stir, nor did he 
make the improvements to be reasonably expected from a 
man capable of the resources and skill necessary to attain 
the success with which he had been credited. He simply 
repeated the same method of treatment, depending mainly 
upon the prestige of his European reputation for enlisting 
attention here. It also came out after his return from 



* During my early professional career, I traveled over much country that had 
been visited by Rarey previous to his going to Europe, especially in Southern Penn- 
sylvania, and frequently heard of him. All the statements concerning him sub- 
stantially agreed in the fact that he traveled alone from town to town, with but 
verv indifferent success. 



HISTOBICAL FACTS. 



373 



Europe, that he learned the secret of Offutt,* from the fact 
that Offutt sued him for revealing it, claiming large dam- 
ages, at first getting judgment, but upon heing carried to a 
higher court, the judgment was reversed. 

In talking with Mr. Fancher about Mr. Karey's claims, 
as proof that he did not originate the system, he brought 




Fig. 261 — The second step in the improved method of throwing. Objectionable 
from danger of pulling the horse over backward, &c. Details explained 

farther on. See page 506 in Personal Experience. l 

forward indorsements from Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, 
and other men of national reputation, showing that he (Fan- 
cher) practiced the same method as early as 1844, which 
was long before Rarey was known. 

I had tried the treatment upon all sorts of horses, and 
had studied with close attention the effect it would produce 
upon horses of different temperaments and habits. While 

*See note on page 384, 



374 



SUBJECTION. 



it would insure considerable success in the control of some 
horses, it would utterly fail upon others. I was led to be- 
lieve that possibly there might be some secret about the 
treatment that I did not understand. To satisfy myself 
upon this point, I had a great desire to see Mr. Rarey him- 
self explain and illustrate it. This I was finally able to 
do in Pittsburg, Pa., in the early summer of 1865, when 
he gave a series of exhibitions there. I exhibited there 




Fig. 262. — The method as now used, giving all the power desired to throw 
any horse with ease, and without danger. 

the week before, and remained over to see him. His ap- 
plication of treatment was precisely what I had long un- 
derstood and practiced. 

I next desired to see Cruiser, and study the peculiari- 
ties of his disposition. In 1868, when in Columbus, Ohio, 
and neighboring towns, I had an opportunity of submitting 
several of his colts to treatment. Two of them were con- 
sidered entirely unmanageable, having resisted all efforts to 



HISTOBICAL FACTS. 



375 



break them. One, an eight-year-old colt, belonging to Squire 
West, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio (a point twelve miles south of 
Columbus, on the pike), was especially vicious. This colt 
submitted to my treatment perfectly in less than an hour. 
I now went to Grroveport to see Cruiser, and spent two 
hours studying him as he stood in his paddock. I found 
him a medium-sized, fine-grained horse. His head was well 
proportioned, wide and full between the eyes, which, though 
not large, were well set out on his head. The eyelids were 
thin, and the distance from eyes to ears noticeably short. 




Fig. 263. — As the horse usually falls by this method. 

The ears were exceedingly fine, short, and pointed, and set 
close together, indicating, like the other parts, great sensi- 
bility and courage, and, if excited, great capacity for pro- 
longed resistance. (I give a sketch of his head, drawn un- 
der my direction from memory, by J. C. Beard of New 
York. It is not exactly the impression I had in my mind, 
but it is as near it as the eminent artist could catch from 
my description.) Though susceptible of being easily man- 
aged when subjected to proper treatment, such a horse I 
knew I could not make gentle and hold him so by the treat- 
ment claimed to have been practiced upon him. And when 



876 



SUBJECTION. 



I took into consideration the character of the Stafford horse 
in France, which I knew to be that of a savage, bull-dog 
nature, and which would not by any means be amenable to 
such a method of treatment, also that of the zebra, a far 
more difficult nature to subdue, I was fully convinced that 
they never were controlled by the method of treatment 
claimed to have been practiced upon them. Also at this 
time and later I made careful inquiry in the neighboring 
towns in relation to Rarey, but could obtain no facts show- 




FiG. 264.— Position of the horse when down. 

ing that he possessed any unusual aptitude or ability in the 
control of horses during his early career. 

I now desired to see Mr. Goodenough, Mr. Rarey's 
partner in England, from whom I hoped to obtain a clue to 
the matter. This I did not expect to accomplish, not know- 
ing whether he were in the country, or even living ; but I 
was finally so fortunate as to meet him under the following 
circumstances : In 1872 I gave test exhibitions in New 
York City (special reference to which is made in Personal 
Experience) before leading horsemen, to which Mr. Good- 
enough was incidentally invited by a friend. A few min- 
utes before commencing the exhibition, Mr. Goodenough 



HISTOEICAL FACTS. 377 

was introduced to me. I was impressed instantly, " Here 
is the key to the whole matter." I found him a man nearly 
six feet tall, finely proportioned, of a strong, vigorous, pro- 
gressive nature, and just the man capable of engineering 
and making a success of such an enterprise. I immediately 
said to him that he was the man of all others I wished to 
see, and that I would like a few minutes' private conversa- 
tion with him. This he kindly granted, when I said, 
" There is one question I wish to ask, which you alone can 
answer. You were with Mr. Rarey when he subdued 
Cruiser, and I would like to knowjust how he accomplished 
it ; for I am sure he never did it by the treatment he pro- 
fessed to have practiced upon him." 

Mr. Gr replied, " How do you know ? " 

I said, " I have studied Cruiser carefully, and handled 
several of his colts, and the treatment will not work for me 
with anything like such success upon a horse of that nat- 
ure and temperament, and I should like to know how Mr, 
R-arey was able to subdue him by such a method of treat- 
ment. It will make no difference now about the facts be- 
ing known, Mr. Rarey being dead." 

Mr. Goodenough laughed, and said, " You are right ; he 
did not subdue him by that treatment. We tried it thor- 
oughly upon him, and failed. I then ad^dsed Rarey to tie 
him down. We did so, and let him lie all night and the 
night following, when we could handle him as we pleased. 
This was the only alternative that suggested itself in the 
emergency, and w« employed it." 

After writing the foregoing, and giving the facts to a 
well-known literary gentleman (Mr. Robert Bonner of New 
York) , explaining the importance of the discovery I had made, 
and adding that I intended to publish it, Mr. Bonner asked, 
" Is Mr. Goodenough living ? " 

I stated that I did not know, when he said at once, — 



378 SUBJECTION. 

" It will not do to publish it unless Mr. Goodenough is 
living." 

Not having any clue to Mr. Goodenough beyond having 
met him in the city eight years before, it was a matter of 
great difficulty to find him, and it was only after a long and 
diligent search that I was by the merest chance finally 
successful. I found him still in vigorous health at the age 
of seventy-two. He received me kindly, but on stating 
the object of my visit, he manifested a decided reluctance to 
say anything about the matter ; and it was only 
after urgently explaining to him that it was necessary, not 
only to the present but to future generations, that the facts 
should be made known ; that I wished to give in this book 
which I was about to publish only such simple facts as were 
necessary to a correct explanation of the principles of con- 
trolling and managing horses, and with the promise that 
whatever I should write upon the subject should not be pub- 
lished until first submitted to his inspection, that he, after two 
hours pleasant conversation, — during which time he gave 
me many interesting incidents in connection with his efforts 
in England, — gave me in substance the following state- 
ment : — 

First becoming interested in Rarey's mode of treatment, 
and desiring to go to England for his own pleasure, and as 
a means more of recreation than of profit, he proposed tak^ 
ing Rarey to England for the purpose of teaching the sys- 
tem, and if successful, to divide the profits equally. Should 
the enterprise not pay, he was to return Rarey to this coun- 
try at his own expense. As a preparatory step, Mr. Good- 
enough had exhibitions given before the chief officers of 
the government, which were highly satisfactory. He then 
obtained letters of introduction from the Governor General 
of Canada to Sir Charles York of the Horse Guards of Lon- 
don, also to Sir Richard Airy, Quartermaster General, to 



HISTOEICAL FACTS. 379 

whom he explained what he wanted ; and by them he was in- 
troduced to Col. Hood, Prince Albert's Chief Equerry, who 
had charge of the Queen's farm at Windsor, and Lord Al- 
fred Paget, the Queen's First Equerry, who were made 
confidants, and to whom the system was previously ex- 
plained. By them he was introduced to the Queen and 
royal family, before whom he performed upon a four-year- 
old colt from the Queen's farm, and also upon other horses. 
These gentlemen permitted their names to be used in the 
London Times as reference for the faithful performance 
of what was promised. 

Books were now opened at Tatersall's for subscriptions 
to learn the system, and two thousand names, comprising 
the nobility of England, were obtained, at ten guineas each. 
The first lesson was given at the Duke of Welhngton's 
private riding school, upon Cruiser. 

The facts in relation to Cruiser and his subjection were 
as follows : He was owned by Lord Dorchester, and had 
been vicious from a colt. He was kept for breeding pur- 
poses at Morrel Green, forty-one miles from London, in a 
building erected especially for him. He had on a simple 
watering-bridle, to which were attached two chains, each 
about twelve inches long, having buckles on the ends. The 
door of his stable was cut in two, and when they intended 
to lead him out for use, they opened the lower half and 
put in a bucket of water for him to drink. When he 
plunged his nose into the bucket to drink, they would 
quickly buckle to these chains two straps, each twenty 
feet long, when he could easily be led out between two 
men. 

I asked Mr. Goodenough, " What about the big iron 
muzzle which it was claimed Cruiser had worn ? " 

He laughed, and said, " That was all advertising decep- 
tion. I had nothing to do with that. There was no muz- 
zle at all on him." 



380 SUBJECTION. 

He leased the horse for six months by the payment of 
£100, stipulating that he should break the horse, and re- 
turn him in good order. Should he fail, he was to pay 
£500, which he subsequently paid Lord Dorchester, and 
brought the horse to America. 

Not wishing to follow the plan of the grooms in taking 
him from the stable, they devised the following one, and 
nearly failed. They backed a cart up near the door, and 
tried by various means to attach the straps to the bridle ; 
but after an hour's effort, failed. Finally, while Mr. Good- 
enough stood in the cart and attracted the attention of the 
horse as he stood near the door, Rarey succeeded in slipping 
the strap over the leg and arm. Once on three legs, he was 
speedily brought under control by throwing. He was now 
led into the yard on three legs, and Lord Dorchester 
mounted him. They now repeated the treatment out of 
doors. The horse finally becoming greatly excited, re- 
sisted with the greatest fury, to use Mr. Goodenough's ex- 
pression, " fairly roaring." 

At this point, when failure was inevitable, Mr. Good^ 
enough suggested the only means of success available, — 
tying down, and letting him remain until exhausted and 
submissive. He was accordingly led into the stable again, 
his fore-legs tied up, and he was thrown down, a collar put 
on, and his hind legs tied forward to it. In this condition 
he was left until the next morning, when they gave him 
water while down ; but behaving gentle, he was released. 
They now fed and groomed him carefully, and led him be- 
hind a dog-cart to London, forty-one miles. To make sure, 
that night they tied him down again, when afterward he 
could be managed without difficulty. After this, Rarey 
handled and trained him every day for two weeks, when 
he had him under such good control that he could stand in 
the ring, and by calling, the horse would come out of his 
stall to him. 



HISTOBICAL FACTS. 381 

The Stafford horse was the worst one they handled. It 
was only after being subjected to treatment in the most 
thorough and persevering manner, and being tied down 
ten nights in succession, that they could, by using the 
greatest precaution, handle him with any degree of safety. 
The zebra was tied down every night for two weeks. Of 
course all this was kept a profound secret. In all critical 
cases, they invariably handled the horse in private until 
successful. Cruiser and the other horses were handled al- 
most daily for two weeks, to insure their reliable manage- 
ment when in public. 

Another fact was not known ; namely, that the entire 
subjection of the zebra, and almost the entire work of sub- 
duing the Stafford horse, was done by Mr. Goodenough. 
At the conclusion of the interview, the writer asked, "Who 
wrote the three principles ujoon which it was assumed the 
system was founded ? " His answer was, 

" Oh, I fixed those up." 

(?^# foH^oin^ -^11^ S^^n {yu€miU^d io m^ foi i^m-Uon- and 
coiiex^ion, and S find ii a &tntfi{^ UaUm^nt vffavU. 



New York, ^ \ , LLA^ 4r2r^^$^^^^^2,-t^j^ 

June 2d, 1881. ' / " " -—O^ 

I would call special attention to the far-reaching skill 
and boldness of conception exhibited by Mr. Groodenough 
in the management of every detail of the enterprise, with- 
out which, success would have been impossible. First, in 
creating such great interest in and attention to their efforts ; 
second, the ingenuity capable of suggesting such means of 
management as would give success ; third, the skiU and 
care with which every point of weakness was guarded and 
concealed until he had accomplished his purpose. This 




§s^ 



SUBJECTION. 



certainly, when calmly considered, was one of the boldest 
and best executed feats of management ever accomj)lished 
in any field of effort, and justly entitles him to whatever 
success or honor there was in the achievement. 

It struck me as of great interest to give a portrait of 
Mr. Groodenough in connection with his statement, and I re- 




Mr. R. a. Goodenough 
At the age of 72. 

quested his iDermission to do so. This he at first, in the 
most positive terms, declined to permit, but finally, after 
much persuasion, and as a matter of jDersonal favor, it was 
granted. 

As before explained, any method of lowering the strength 
or vitality, such as bleeding, starving, depriving of sleep, 
etc., will give power to subdue the horse to any de- 
gree for the time ; yet after the strength is regained, the 
character is liable to become as bad as before. This is 
proved by the cases referred to again becoming vicious. 



HISTOBICAL FACTS. S8S 

The Allegan horse, " Case No. 9, Subjection," was 
starved to the point of helplessness, with other extreme 
treatment, without being able to hold him gentle ; yet after 
a course of proper subjective treatment, he was held gentle 
without difficulty. The Hillman horse, " Case No. 7, Sub- 
jection," is another striking case. The most severe treat- 
ment failed to hold him gentle. If necessary, the same 
could be said about many other cases, showing such limited 
imperfect methods to be entirely inferior to the regular 
treatment here given. 

As to the method claimed to have been used (disabling 
and throwing) , it was good so far as it went, but it did not 
go far enough. This can be better understood when it is 
learned there was but one method of treatment, " throwing," 
for all kinds of horses, from the green colt that had never 
been handled, to the old horse of the worst character ; all 
were treated alike. Of course it is easy to disable and 
throw a horse until he will not resist, so far as the act of 
throwing is concerned, but if the horse, after being thrown, 
persists in the habit, which may be expected in bad cases, 
it will fail. But even this principle of subjection we have 
now so far improved upon as to make it immeasurably more 
direct and powerful in effect. 

If in wrestling a man could be thrown directly upon 
his back as fast as he could get up, it is evident a much 
more effectual impression of his antagonist's mastery would 
be made than if he were permitted to carry on a doubtful 
struggle for half an hour, that would only occasionally 
bring him to his knees. The very doubtfulness of the 
contest would stimulate him to the utmost resistance until 
exhausted. But if he were thrown at once, and as often 
as he could get up, his courage and confidence would be at 
once broken up, convincing him of the uselessness of con- 
tinuing the struggle, and making the impression of mastery 



384 SUBJECTION. 

all that could be desired. The effect upon the horse is the 
same. If the control is made direct and positive, throwing 
the horse on his side as often as he can get up, the confi- 
dence which stimulates the resistance is quickly broken up. 
Now this we are able to do by the improvement given 
in the First Method, which gives such power that any or- 
dinary man can throw the strongest horse as quickly and 
as often as he can get up ; in addition, he can hold him 
down or roll him back, as he j)leases, thereby making it 
not only far more effective, but entirely obviating the ob- 
jections of the old method. Yet even with this great ad- 
vantage, it is seen that this method constitutes but a small 
part of my system, and is far inferior to the other methods 
introduced. 

The ease and success with which the character of a wild 
or vicious horse can be changed when subjected to the 
proper method of treatment is wonderful. For example, 
a wild, unbroken colt that it would be dangerous to touch 
or even approach, and which it would be entirely impossi- 
ble to control in harness, can, by ten to thirty minutes' ju- 
dicious, subjective treatment, be made just as manageable 
and gentle as any well-broken horse. Or a runaway kicker 
that has become afraid of the wagon, and perhaps so vicious 
in his resistance as to be entirely unmanageable, can, by a 

Note. — In March, 1883, after the foregoing statement was in type, the writer 
visited New York City for the purpose of having new illustrations made, and obtain- 
ing assistance in the preparation of the medical department of this work. While 
there, he was incidentally informed by a prominent gentleman to M'hom he submitted 
the proof-sheet of the article, that the facts concerning Rarey's being taught by 
Offutt would be found in the issue of Turf^ Field, a-n.d Farm of Jan. 4, 1S7S. To 
prove the assertion, the gentleman sent to the office of that paper for the files con- 
taining the issue in question, and read the article. It comprised an interesting ac- 
count of a visit by the editor, Mr. Busbey, to Mr. A. Keene Eichards, at the home of 
the latter gentleman, at Blue Grass Park, near Georgetown, Ky. At the close of 
this chapter (page 449) I give the substance of their conversation in relation to the 
matter, as an introduction to an extract from Mr. OfEutt's book, which clearly shows 
that Rarey received his knowledge from Denton Offutt. 



EFFECTS OF TEEATMEKT. 



385 



little treatment, seldom requiring more than twenty or 
thirty minutes J be made so gentle as to submit eyen to 
have the cross-piece come against the quarters, — a test that 
only horses of the very best character will bear. 

This is strikingly illustrated in the ease with which the 
most stubborn horse can by a few minutes' treatment be 
made, without the least restraint of halter or bridle, to fol- 
low or run after the trainer with the docility and obedience 
of a pet. It is also shown in the ease with which a nerv- 
ous, excitable horse can be made indifferent to an object 





Tig. 265. — Effect of good 
Influences. 



Fig. 266.— Effect of bad 
influences. 



that had previously induced in him the greatest terror. But 
it is mainly interesting as contrasting the facility and ease 
with which even horses of extremely bad character can be 
made entirely gentle when treated properly, with the diffi- 
culty of doing it when the treatment is not right ; show- 
ing conclusively that the main causes of trouble in the con- 
trol and management of horses are ignorance and bad treat- 
ment. 

Properly considered, the art of taming and teaching 
horses consists in appealing to or acting upon the brain 
most forcibly in the desired direction. This can be done 
with great success, even without the use of much physical 

25 



386 



SUBJBCTIOK. 



force. Every one knows that a single worcl may often be 
sufi&cient to make such an impression upon the brain as not 
only to destroy all kindly feeling, but to perpetuate the 
greatest enmity eA^er afterward ; also that character is 
formed by the influences to which the mind is subjected. 
This is proved by the fact that children, and those ex- 
posed to coarse or abusive influences, haA^e the stamp of 
that character predominant, while those subject to kind, in- 
telligent treatment have the better nature developed ; also 
that even the most intelligent men and women can have 





Tig. 267 



-Effect of good education 
and influences. 



Fig. 26S. — Effect of bad education 
and influences. 



the mind so perverted and weakened by the use of narcot 
ics or unnatural stimulants, such as tobacco, opium, alcoholic 
liquors, etc., as to make it very difficult to overcome the 
habit. I give a series of illustrations showing the contrasts 
of character, the results of good and bad influences, for which 
I am indebted to the courtesy of Messrs. Fowler & Wells, 
of New York City. 

On the same principle, the horse can be influenced in 
the formation of his character for good or bad, by the treat- 
ment to which he is subjected. We see that the impres- 
sion of cA^en a few moments is sometimes sufS.cient of itself 
to change the whole character for life. This is shown by the 



EI^FECTS OF TEEATMENT. 38^ 

fease with which many fine horses, though previously of 
the very best character, have been changed into dangerous, 
unreliable brutes, by a little carelessness which allowed them 
to run away, or by abusive treatment which aroused the 
temper into uncontrollable resistance, making them after- 
ward practically unsafe and worthless for use. And on the 
same principle, when understood and properly applied, a 
bad character can be neutralized and overcome so as to 
establish a reliable condition of docility, as shown and 





Fig. 269.— Result of good FiG. 270.— Result of bad 

influences. influences. 

proved in the many cases recorded in this and other chap- 
ters of this work. 

The better to explain this, I give a variety of illustra- 
tions showing the effects of bad treatment and intensely 
exciting influences upon the nervous system. Understand- 
ing these principles and applying them properly, it is often 
wonderful to what a degree the brain can be acted upon 
in making a horse either gentle or vicious ; showing that it 
is not only not difficult, but even easy, to make the most 
vicious, unmanageable horses as gentle and obedient to 
control as if they had always been of the best character. 

It is a recognized fact that the horse partakes largely 
of the character of the owner. If he is kind and gentle, 



^88 



SUBJECTION. 



the horse, on coming under such influences, though j)re- 
viously nervous and difficult to manage, soon becomes do- 
cile and gentle; while an irritable, passionate or impulsiAe 
man will often speedily impart the same characteristics to 
the animal he undertakes to manage. 

To explain the principles governing these conditions, 
we will presume to make a few simple experiments. First, 
suppose a horse resists being shod ; if the foot were taken 
up very gently, lifted higher, and gradually using more 
force as there is sufficient power acquired to hold, and re- 
strain it, until submitted to be pounded upon without ex- 
citing resistance, the success in the management of the 





Fig. 271. — EfEect of good influ- 
ences and training. 



Fig. 272.— EfEect of bad influ- 
ences and training. 



case would be easy and simple. But if there is not suffi- 
cient tact and delicacy in taking up the foot, or the resist- 
ance becomes so great that it is pulled away, the treat- 
ment, no matter how successful up to this point, would not 
only be a failure, but to some extent make the horse 
worse by teaching him his power of resistance. It would 
be necessary in such a case to use such simple or direct 
means of control as will enable holding and restraining the 
foot most easily ; but in the event of the resistance becom- 
ing so great that the foot cannot be held or controlled, 
then the restraint should be made of such a character as to 
first enforce general submission, when, if necessary, the 
treatment can be again carried directly to the foot, when 



EFFECTS OF TEEATMENT. 



389 



the control can be made easy and simple. In this we find 
there are two principles involved: 1. Tact and judgment 
to hold the inclination to resistance passive until the atten- 
tion and confidence can be won, or until there is submis- 
sion; 2. In using means of subjection, or force, to make ev- 
ery step of progress so sure that resistance cannot be suc- 
cessfully made until all inclination to repeat the habit is 
overcome. 

Next, in the case of a wild, unbroken colt, to gradually 
overcome his fear by working indirectly to the point of his 
resistance until he becomes submissive. For example : If, 





Fig. 273. — Expression of 
kindness and love. 



Fig. 274. — Expression of 
disgust and hate. 



after haltering, a pole were brought gently to the nose 
until there is no fear of it, then passed back slowly, at 
the same time gently rubbing the mane and other parts 
until it can be passed around the quarters without excit- 
ing his resistance, it would be just as good, if not better, 
than if subjected to more severe treatment. But if he re- 
sists, or is so vicious that he will not submit to this treat- 
ment, then he must be subjected to such treatment as will 
most directly neutralize and restrain his resistance until 
this can be done and the impression made permanent, when 
but little difiiculty will be experienced in enforcing docil- 
ity in even the niost vicious ca-S^S. 



390 



SUBJECTION. 



The principle is the same in the management of kick- 
ing, runaway, biting, striking horses, as well as horses of 
other peculiarities of resistance, the point being, first, to 
use tact in addressing the animal's intelligence without ex- 
citing his fear, or to the least possible degree, and, as in 
the examples referred to, resorting to such means of re- 
straint or power to impress the brain sufficiently, without in- 
jury, to compel obedience, and fix the condition of docil- 
ity, — more or less being necessary to be done, according to 
the severity of the case. Although I have given in the 




EiG. 275. — Primary effects of intemperance. 

first chapter very full details of the principles and best 
methods of doing this, which, with the details of their ap- 
plication for the management of the various habits, to be 
found in subsequent chapters, should make it sufficiently 
clear to the reader, still I think there are some points that 
require in this connection more full explanation. I would 
allude particularly to the necessity for adapting treatment 
to conditions of intelligence and character, the importance 
of not neutralizing or counteracting the effects of the treat- 
ment by exciting resistance, the effect of drugs, inherent 
power, etc. 

The study of physiology teaches that the primary units, 
or protoplasm, are in all cases the same; that each peculi- 



REVIEW OF SYSTEM. 



391 



arity of action or sense is governed by aggregations of these, 
called nerve centers; that, for example, the nerve centers 
controlling the senses of smelling, tasting, feeling, seeing, 
balancing, etc., are at the back part or base of the brain ; 
that the power and activity of these senses are in all cases 
governed by the strength and activity of such ganglia of 
nerves. Thus, a hound that follows the scent, or a bird- 
dog that has the power of smelling game at a distance, has 
large development of the olfactory nerve ; while the grey- 
hound, eagle, vulture, etc., that depend upon seeing game 




Fig. 376. — Ultimate eflEects of intemperance. 

at a great distance, have large development of the optic 
nerve; and others that depend for safety upon hearing, 
have large development of the auditory nerve. Thus ev- 
ery peculiarity of animal nature has some special excellence 
of power, adapted either to aggression or defense. The 
bee has its sting, the viper its fangs, the bull its horns, and 
the horse bites, strikes, kicks, etc. 

The front brain, or cerebrum, gives the power of sense, 
or reason, and animals of but small brain have but very 
little capacity for being trained or taught, while those hav- 
ing considerable brain can be easily taught. For example, 
a fish has very little or no brain, and cannot be taught any- 



392 



SUBJECTION. 




Fig. 277. — Expression of aggressive 
viciousness. 



thing, while a dog, elephant, or other animal that has con- 
siderable development of brain, can easily be taught a great 
deal. 

In like manner there are greater or less degrees of a 

natural tendency in horses 
to viciousness and resist- 
ance, imposing more or less 
difficulty in their subjec- 
tion. Twenty horses may 
kick or run away, and so 
far as the act of resistance 
is concerned, there is prac- 
tically little or no differ- 
ence. One horse may yield 
to treatment in a few min- 
utes, the next may require 
a much longer time, while the third, though subjected to 
the same treatment, can perhaps be controlled only after 
hours of extreme effort. 
Consequently, success in 
the subjection of any par- 
ticular case, or in over- 
coming any special habit, 
must depend, first, upon 
the amount and quality of 
the brain; second, the de- 
gree to which the nervous 
system has been impressed 
or deranged ; third, upon 
the pluck and endurance 
of the horse ; and fourth, 
the directness and power 
with which the resistance can be restrained or controlled, 
and the skill with which the treatment is applied. 




Fig. 278. — Expression of docility. 



EEYIEW OF SYSTEM. 



893 




Fig. 279. — Expression of viciousness. 



It is evident that a very timid, sensitive nature, which 
is moved entirely by fear, can be controlled best by patient, 
winning treatment, while a 
stubborn, aggressive type of 
character must be met by 
force, or the fear of punish- 
ment. Hence, in propor- 
tion to the predominance of 
these peculiarities there 
must be force, or winning 
treatment, or both com- 
bined. To illustrate: A 
sheep or gazelle, or any an- 
imal of that nature, can 
be managed best by gentle, 
winning treatment. To ex- 
cite them in any way would 
undo the effect of a great 
deal of patient Avork, while the bear, hog, mule, and kin- 
dred natures, will bear force : and 
punishment in many instances be- 
comes a necessary condition of 
theii- management. The horse 
possesses, to a singular degree, 
these, with other remarkable 
modifications of character, not 
only making a combination of 
kindness and force necessary, 
but this force must be of a char- 
acter not to excite pain, or to 
stimulate the bad nature, as this 
but neutralizes or counteracts the 
effects of good treatment. This 
is particularly the case when there is much sensitiveness, 
or where there is much tendency to the strong^ wild| 




Fig. 380. — Espressiou of 
kindness. 



394 SUBJECTION. 

courageous type of nature. These conditions show that 
no matter how good and perfect the treatment, success 
must depend greatly upon the skill and judgment of the 
trainer in properly adapting the efforts to the conditions of 
the case. 

First, these conditions require enforcing submission be- 
fore the horse becomes greatly excited and warmed up. 
Should there be failure before this is accomplished, the dif- 




FiG. 2Sl.^-Expressior of rage and fear. 

ficulty of making him surrender unconditionally will be 
greatly increased. 

Second, the horse must be made to understand the harm- 
less character of objects and sounds forced upon his notice, 
until intelligently reconciled to them. 

Third, the co-operation of his intelligence and better 
nature must be won by kindness to permanently fix the 
impression of control. In doing this, we see that so far as 
we can show a horse in any way that we are master, he 
will become submissive and gentle. Thus by disabling and 
throwing until he is so discouraged that he will not try to 
resist, he will become gentle to handle ; but if he is allowed 



EEYIEW OF SYSTEM. 



395 




Fig. 283. — Expression of strong, determined 
character when mad. 



to get up immediately and move about at will, he m_ay again 
resist with the greatest courage. To make him reliably 
gentle upojn his feet, he must be controlled in this position 
also. For exam- 
ple, should he re- 
sist the bit and 
run away, subject- 
ing him to any 
treatment short of 
direct control of 
the mouth, and 
that at the time 
and in the position 
of his resistance, 
would be defective 
or entirely useless. 
On the same principle, should the horse kick, balk, or show 
any other bad habit, sufficient power must be used to com- 
bat or overcome 
these habits direct- 
ly, or there cannot 
be assurance of suc- 
cess. Of course it 
is easy, in a general 
way, to subdue a 
horse; but the diffi- 
culty is to do it so 
as not to excite his 
resistance, or to do 
him any physical 
injury. 

In teaching a colt to lead by the halter, or follow, if the 
pull is brought upon the head sideways, his power of re- 
sistance in this direction becomes so lessened that he can 




Fig. 283. — Expression of nervous excitabilitj. 



396 



SUBJECTION. 



be pulled around instantly and easily, and lie can soon be 
taught to come around and follow without resistance. But 
if this cannot be done with the halter, increase tlfe power 
of pulling by means of the War Bridle, or decrease the 
power of resistance by tying up one foot. 

If, on the other hand, the pulling were made straight 
ahead, which is the more common method, the work will 
be done at a great disadvantage, because in this way we 
stimulate resistance, if we do not give power successfully 




Fig. 284. — Effect of intense fear. 

to resist us. This mode of pulling would retard, if not 
wholly neutralize, the effort to control the horse, as he 
would now involuntarily draw backward, bracing himself 
with his legs, thus increasing his power of resistance, which 
soon shows him there is not sufficient strength to move him. 
Hence the necessity of combating the resistance in such a 
way as not to permit this to be done. Either or both the 
methods combined will give sufficient power to compel his 
following without causing him injury. 

The principle is the same in combating a habit, or 
viciousness of any character. But should the resistance 



Review of system. s^f 

be so great that it cannot be overcome by simple treatment, 
then the more direct means of obtaining power must be 
used, such as the various methods of general subjection, 
using one or more, according to the character of the case. 

The art of taming horses, or the principles of subjection, 
may be divided into four general classes. The one entitled 
the First Method of Subjection, in the first chapter, is the 
most sensational, and is based upon making the horse par- 
tially helpless by tying up the fore leg, and throwing. 
This, though necessarily limited in its effects, when prop- 
erly done is a valuable method of subjection. Throwing 
him repeatedly and rapidly as often as he can get up, and 
rolling him back until he gives up unconditionally, is the 
full extent of the power of this method. If the horse be 
of a nature to submit fully to this method, the result will 
be very satisfactory ; if not, it should be followed by the 
other methods. 

The second, called the Second Method of Subjection, is 
simpler, and is based upon the principle of preventing the 
horse from concentrating his purpose to act until he can be 
rendered helpless, and be subdued. In the subjection of 
colts and some strong, dangerous young horses, that, when 
approached, strike and kick, and upon which it would be not 
only extremely difficult, but dangerous, to try the other 
methods, this method will be found especially effective. It 
is also a reliable reserve to be used in connection with the 
other methods, particularly the first, or in effecting control 
when the others prove inadequate. It gives the true key 
for breaking single balkers, as it not only gives power to 
move the horse at will, but disconcerts the mind from the 
purpose of resisting, by the confusion it causes. 

This form of subjection, simple as it is, requires very 
nice discrimination to bring out its full effects, especially 
in the management of very bad cases ; for if not carried far 



§98 SUBJECTION. 

enough, there is liability of failure, and even when carried to 
the fullest extent of its power, there may in some cases be 
resistance to it. These are usually cases that, when 
warmed up or handled carelessly, become desperate in their 
resistance before being made to yield. The point in the 
management of such is to follow with the Third Method, 
which will usually make the horse submit. But if there is 
much resistance to it, after cooling off, another sharp or 
short lesson with this will rarely fail to produce uncon- 
ditional submission. 

Third, by pressure upon the spinal cord, which grasps, 
as it were, and holds in subjection at will, the very life of 
the horse. 'This is called the Third Method of Subjection. 
It will be found especially adapted to the subjection of 
nervous-tempered horses that will not bear excitement. 
For example, a horse that in an attempt to throw would be- 
come so irritated and excited as to jump and resist so much 
as to endanger straining, or if subjected to the Second 
Method would go so quickly as to be liable to fall down 
directly, or be made to yield only after the most severe 
effort, will usually submit readily to this method of treat- 
ment. If a kicker in harness, that exhibits fear when any- 
thing is brought near or against his quarters, subjecting 
him to pressure of about three cords, and touching the quar- 
ters gently with a pole until indifferent to its contact, will 
usually compel submission in a few minutes. Horses of an 
ordinary bad character submit in from eight to twelve min- 
utes, but exceptionally bad cases may resist it thirty min- 
utes, even with the use of four cords (100 feet) ; but in all 
cases it can be supplemented by the other methods. 

One important point I wish to impress is that whatever 
is intended to be done with this method, must be done at 
once, and carried to the fullest extent that the horse 
will bear. If he resists it, it must at once be abandoned, 



ilEYIEW OF SYSTEM. 399 

because it is liable to make the cheeks more or less sore ; 



also the effect is not satisfactory when repeated next day, 
or at any time afterward ; so that if the point is not made 
at once, other treatment must be resorted to. 

I seldom use this method in the management of colts, 
because they are liable to bite, or chew the lips or cheeks. 
In their management, the Second Method, in connection 
with the War Bridle, is far more simple and easy. Occa- 
sionally an old horse will do this, and may resist the treat- 
ment violently, and become much excited over it. In such 
a case it must be at once abandoned. 

Next come the various modifications of the War Bridle, 
which give all the power necessary to subdue and control 
more than half of the average of vicious colts and horses. 
It is aU that is necessary for nearly all horses bad to shoe, 
harness, etc., and is by far the best means of teaching a 
horse to lead or follow. It is one of the most effective 
means of overcoming the habit of balking. Though a minor 
method of subjection, I regard it so important that I have 
given a careful explanation of it, very fully illustrated. 

The Breaking Bit and Patent Bridle are equally impor- 
tant in their places. The Breaking Bit, without doing in- 
jury, gives power to train the mouth so that it wiU yield 
to an ordinary bit. The Patent Bridle was invented by 
me for the purpose of enabling persons lacking in practical 
experience, to directly control headstrong, lunging, runa- 
way horses. In the first place, the extra adjustment over 
the upper jaw gives such power upon the mouth that the 
most reckless horse cannot successfully pull against it, and 
he wiU in a short time be so unnerved as to become sub- 
missive to a slack rein. Secondly, the pressure upon the 
spinal cord is so intense that courage to pull cannot be 
maintained for any length of time. When he gives up, it 
becomes simply a common bit in his mouth, but ready to 



400 SUBJiECTIO]^. 

instantly bring to bear the same terrible pain and power 
before felt. I also give illustrations of very powerful but 
simple means of controlling headstrong horses by the Half- 
Moon and other bits, 

I call attention in a general way to the application cf 
these methods, because much depends both upon the way 
they are used for cases to which they are specially adapted, 
and in properly following with the next best suited to the 
case. When the case is critical, an important point is to 
make every step of the treatment sure, and to vary it all 
the horse will bear ; for the more ways in which power to 
enforce obedience can be applied, the more impressive and 
enduring will be the effect. Consequently, if the case be 
bad, it may be necessary to apply two, or even all three, of 
the methods of subjection. Suppose the case to be a bad, 
young, kicking horse, the First Method will usually be 
found applicable; he would be likely to resist the Second 
too severely to make it successful. The best course would 
be to send him around a few times, enough to take off the 
wire edge of his courage, then put on the throwing rig, and 
throw him rapidly eight or a dozen times, when his subjec- 
tion will be easy and simple. When on his feet, and espe- 
cially when driven around in harness, if it is discovered 
that he is yet so sensitive as to be liable to kick or break 
over, the Second or Third Method should at once be used. 
Not unfrequently both will be necessary. The First will 
do no good if repeated, for the reason that the horse will 
lie down, and remain passive while down, but when up may 
kick as viciously as before. Sometimes the Third Method 
may be tried, and the horse not submit to it uncondition- 
ally ; then the Second or First are to be tried. The differ- 
ence between the First and Second is that the First cannot 
be repeated with success, while the Second can be ; and 
usually in very bad cases I hold the Second as the reserve 



MVIBW OF SYSTEM. 401 

power. As explained in the first chapter, it will not do to 
use the First Method on a sullen or sulky horse. He will 
usually drop down upon his belly, not trying to get up. 
In such a case dependence must he placed upon the Second 
and Third alternately. 

The mustang, of a wild, dangerous nature, cannot be 
safely approached and subjected to the Third Method, be- 
cause he would strike the moment approached. If a rig 
could be put on, and the foot tied up (which would be very 
difficult to do), the instant freedom is given again he would 
be likely to bound into the air, or drop down sullenly upon 
his belly, either doing nothing or acting like a desperate 
maniac. For such the Second Method would be just the 
thing. It requires very little effort to tie the halter into 
the tail, and send around until helplessly dizzy, when the 
subjection of the case becomes simple and easy. A wild 
mule, that cannot be safely touched, can frequently be made 
entirely gentle in a few minutes in this way, and after this 
treatment, if necessary, the other methods can be used. 

If space permitted, these explanations might be ex- 
tended indefinitely. But whatever the success of the direct 
treatment, it is important to hold the advantage gained, by 
kind and careful after-treatment, because upon kindness must 
depend fixing and holding the impression made upon the 
brain by the previous treatment. Without this, it is practi- 
cally impossible to hold a very vicious horse gentle. It is, 
of course, easy enough to compel obedience by fiorce, or by 
reducing the strength ; but unless the incentive to resist- 
ance is overcome, which must really be done by kindness, 
the instinct of viciousness is liable to again gain the ascend- 
ency. The importance of this is repeatedly urged in the 
previous chapters. Without this, the best results of direct 
subjection can easily be neutralized, and the horse be per- 
mitted to go back into his old habits. Should this occur, 

26 



40^ SUBJECTIOi^. 

the difficulty of his subjection would be greatly increased, 
as such failures teach the horse to become cunning, and 
give him confidence to fight back at every opportunity. 
This is the reason why I refused to handle the Portland 
horse "Jet" (Case 7, Subjection), until I could remain in 
the city long enough to see that the after-treatment was 
properly carried out. Without this care, there would have 
been failure. It was the main key of making the " Arnd" 
horse, of Bath, N. Y., gentle. I refer to these as good rejD- 
resentative cases ; for without this care neither of these 
horses could have been held gentle, and it is equally im- 
portant in the management of all cases. 

The great power and effectiveness of these methods 
when properly applied, will enable the trainer to easily 
and safely control the most powerful horses to any extent 
desired. This is proved by the success of my experiments 
upon all kinds of horses which had resisted all previous ef- 
forts to break. Reference to a few representative cases 
will be found at the close of this chapter. 

The subjection of " Wild Pete," the " Hettrick Horse," 
" Wilkins Horse," " Omnibus Horse," " Portland Horse 
Jet," and many others that might be named, equally vicious, 
when the character of the horses, and the shortness of the 
time required to j)roduce the changes, are considered, may 
seem to border so closely upon the miraculous as to aj^pear 
incredible; yet these results were accomplished simply by 
the skillfu^ application of the methods of treatment here 
given. 

Many people suppose there is a medicine or something 
of the kind that will make vicious horses gentle, or enable 
their control at will. Sometimes, when unusually success- 
ful in the subjection of an exceptionally vicious horse or 
colt, though the treatment had been carefully explained to 
the class, the result would appear so wonderful that they 



MEDICmES, OR DETJG!^. 403 

could not realize how such a change could he hrought 
ahout hy the treatment employed. It was not unusual to 
have persons smell of my hands or clothing to see if they 
could discover some peculiar odor about me to account for 
so great an achievement. 

On this account, I think it advisable to explain what 
medicines are supposed to do this, and their effects. The 
main object in the use of odors, or scents, has been to attract 
attention, and divert it from the real means of control. 
Many odors, or scents, will in some instances affect the 
nervous system greatly. Blood, a buffalo robe, or any 
offensive odor, will intensely excite many horses. In 
trapping for mink or other animals, it is no uncommon 
thing for the hunter to conceal the smell of his hands from 
the tra]D, and attract the animal to it by using some odor 
that is agreeable to him. Asafetida put on the bottom of 
the boots will cause wolves to follow the wearer eagerly. 
While this is admitted, there is no odor or medicine that I 
know of — and I have experimented carefully with all those 
supposed to have this power, without obtaining decidedly 
satisfactory results — that will make a wild horse approach- 
able and induce him to follow, or make a vicious horse 
gentle. 

What is supposed to be the great medicine for doing 
this is called the " Arabian secret," which consists of two 
parts of the oil of rhodium, and one each of cumin an"d 
anise, to be kept in separate bottles and corked tightly; 
but practically it makes no difference whether they are 
kei^t separate or not. A little of this is to be rubbed on 
the hands, and while held before the horse, approach from 
the windward side ; when near enough, rub a little on his 
nose, Avhen the horse, it is claimed, will follow anywhere. 
Other essential oils are recommended for the same purpose, 
but their effect is really no better than good apples or any- 



404 SUBJECTION. 

thing of which the horse is fond.* Warts or ostlets, grow- 
ing on the inside of a horse's leg, dried, and pulverized 
with a coarse rasp or grater, and about a thimble full blown 
into the nostrils, is also claimed to make any horse gentle. 
This is to be used in connection with the oils mentioned. 
The oil of parsley is sometimes used for the same purpose. 
A few drops are put on the hands or handkerchief, and the 
horse is allowed to smell of it. The perspiration from under 
the arms, rubbed on the horse's nose, or breathed into the 
nostrils from the hand, is also held as quite a secret for 
making a horse so gentle that he will follow readily. 

Before and during the time of Rarey, parties under- 
standing the secret of " throwing," usually managed as 
follows : Force the horse to lie down on the barn floor until 
submissive ; and, while lying quietly, open the door and 
allow the people to come in. Under such circumstances, 
much curiosity will be manifested to discover what has 
been done. The operator now, while pretending that he is 
unobserA^ed, will slip a piece of apple into the horse's 
mouth, and rub the hand over the nose. This will of 
course be observed, and when curiosity is sufficiently 
aroused, the pretended tamer will say, " Yes ; I have a 
secret scent by which any horse can be tamed, the effect 
of which you see." Then he will offer to sell the secret, 
naming a large price, but finally taking what he can get. 
I'have found in my travels many who have paid from ten 
to fifty dollars for the " Arabian secret." The control was 
obtained by throwing. But this in itself being too simple 
to inspire much faith, the medicine dodge was added. 

* Denton OfEutt's book, which I have carefully read, and the best features of 
which are given at the close of this chapter, contains some secrets for taming 
horses and other animals, for the virtues of which he claims a great deal ; but they 
are practically of no more consideration than other treatment of the same kind. 
Still, I thought it advisable, and of sufficient interest to the curious, to copy them 
verbatim, and they will be found embodied in this work. 



MEDICINES, OE DKIJGS. 405 

The man who was most instrumental in teaching this 
method of " throwing," was Mr. 0. H. P. Fancher, before 
referred to, who claimed to have given Rarey instructions 
on the practical application of the method of subjection 
which he practiced. In 1865 and '66, I traveled through 
his section of country, and hired to him one of my horses 
trained to drive without reins, when he took the road, 
teaching my system, and abandoned the medicine scheme, 

Catlin, describing his travels among the North Ameri- 
can Indians, mentions the manner of their taming horses 
as follows : — 

" The Indian coils his lasso on his arm and gallops 
fearlessly into the herd of wild horses, and soon gets it 
over the neck of one of the number, when he instantly dis- 
mounts so as to hold him down and prevent him from 
turning over on his back. He now gradually advances 
until he is able to place his hand on the animal's nose and 
over his eyes, and breathe into his nostrils, when the horse 
becomes so docile and conquered, that by removing the 
hobbles from the feet, he can be led or ridden into camp 
with very little difficulty." 

According to this statement, which seems reliable, 
covering the eyes and breathing into the nostrils of the 
wild horse, was the principal means of his subjection ; if 
true, it would be an easy and simple matter to mako a 
vicious horse gentle. I have repeatedly tried the experiment 
upon all kinds of horses, and found it would not produce 
any appreciable effect for me, and consider it practically of 
no more account than merely stroking the head and nose 
with the hand. 

I might add many other pretended secrets, but none of 
them are worthy of much consideration. Ostlets, before 
referred to, taken from a vigorous horse, properly prepared 
3,nd used, may produce very satisfactory results, especially 



406 SUBJECTION. 

in the management of balkers. They should be prepared 
as follows : If the subject be a mare, the warts, fresh and 
strong, should be taken from a healthy horse. Sometimes 
old accumulations lose their strength, and are good for 
nothing. Dry the ostlets carefully, and grate them to a 
fine powder, and keep in an air-tight bottle. One hour 
before the horse is driven, blow an old-fashioned thimble 
full into the nostrils, and the horse will usually go off all 
right. 

This secret was given me by an old man in Western 
Ohio, who, with his sons, about ten years ago, was a mem- 
ber of my class. After taking me one side, and express- 
ing his appreciation of the information I had given him, he 
said he would give me a secret that he had practiced for 
forty years, and had never known it to fail. " Every one 
around here knows," said he, " that I can drive any balky 
horse, but never learned the secret of my doing it. I am 
now an old man of seventy-four years ; and not intending to 
handle any more horses, I will give it to you for your ben- 
efit." He said he had never in any case found it necessary 
to repeat it more than two or three times. 

Sometimes a horse that has learned to kick his mate, 
can be cured by giving this. It would also be good when 
a horse objects seriously to the scent of a buffalo robe or 
other object, to blow this into the nose, because it conceals 
the repugnant odor. It will also be found the principal 
ingredient in the remedy for the cure of fits. (See 
" Medical Department " under the head of " Miscellaneous 
Recipes.") 

I would here add that I have had so little trouble in 
breaking balkers by the treatment explained under that 
head, that I never used this ; but I have given the secret to 
many, and reports have been favorable. A great secret 
among some dog fanciers is holding a little of this in the 



MEDICINES, OK DEUGS. 407 

hand, and letting the dog smell of it, when he will follow 
anywhere. The secret of the effect of these ostlets upon 
the horse, is undoubtedly the strong pungent odor, which 
has a remarkably soothing effect upon the nervous system, 
by which the horse is disconcerted and won from his pur- 
pose of resistance. 

It is well known that gypsies are very successful in 
managing vicious horses. Their method of management is 
to boil a plug of tobacco in a gallon of ale, until the strength 
is extracted, then give enough of it to make the horse so 
sick that he cannot resist.* He is then driven as desired, 
and when over the effect of it, the dose is repeated, if nec- 
essary. 

I never but once resorted to the use of medicine 
to control a horse before a class. When at Howard 
Steuben Co., N. Y., a strong, wild, unbroken colt seven 
years old, was the subject of experiment. At the time, 
I was so prostrated by ague that I was not able to give 
the horse sufficient treatment to drive him under canvas or 
in the street with safety. The class insisted upon my 
doing this. I therefore proposed to the owner that the 
colt be taken to the next town, where I would be on the 
following day, when I would make him drive gently, promis- 
ing that if I failed to do so satisfactorily, I would return them 
their money. Next morning I was more prostrated than be- 
fore, but as my failure to drive the horse in the street would 
necessitate a return of the money, and make it impossible for 
me to form a class there, I was compelled to resort to strat- 
egy. I directed one of my men to go to the drug store and 
get two ounces of tincture of lobelia, and, when free from 
observation, give it to the horse. In about half an hour, 

* This was given me by a gypsy who was a member of my class. Gypsies have 
been repeatedly in my classes since, and all admit that this was their principal 
secret, 



408 SUBJECTION. 

when I supposed he felt the full eifects, I subjected him as 
a matter of form to the Second Method for a few minutes, 
and then drove him through the streets perfectly gentle. 
The fact was, he had become so sick that he could not resist. 
I now directed the man to put him in his team and drive 
home. Knowing the temperament of the horse, I concluded 
he would submit to this means, which he did, but I resorted 
to it only because of my weakened condition. 

I was informed by the owner nearly a year afterward, 
that the horse remained entirely gentle, and that if I would 

return again to H , he would warrant me a large class. 

I have experimented carefully with this method of treat- 
ment upon a variety of cases. Sometimes it would work 
exceedingly well on those of a cold blooded nature, but 
courageous, strong-willed cases are liable, when excited, to 
resist it, even when given much larger doses. (Two 
ounces should be about the maximum dose for an ordinary 
sized horse.) In addition to making violently sick, it is 
liable to produce severe attacks of colic. One horse I 
experimented upon in this way became subject to colic. 

Control by the Eye, or Will. 

It is supposed by many that certain persons possess a 
peculiar power by which they can with safety approach 
and control a vicious horse as if by magic. In the sense 
understood, this cannot be done. There is no inherent 
power beyond that of nerve to conceal any impression of 
fear or timidity, and the ability to exercise accurate judg- 
ment in determining what to do and how much, so as not 
to excite resistance until the horse is under control. For 
example, standing just beyond his reach, and looking fix- 
edly into his eye, saying with sternness, " Get around ! " 
until he is disconcerted, then approaching the shoulder and 
passing the hand quickly but smoothly up to the halter or 



CONTEOL BY THE EYE, OE WILL. 409 

bridle, thence to the nose-piece, and grasping it firmly, 
will enable one to approach some horses with safety, which 
it would be dangerous to go near without. 

It is an undoubted fact that a certain class of snakes 
can so charm birds as to disable and catch them, and there 
are well-authenticated cases of their charming children and 
men. An intelligent lady, in whom the writer has perfect 
confidence, stated that in two instances she had seen small 
birds charmed by a black snake. Once, when stepping 
over a log, she saw a bird in the act of flying into the open 
mouth of a large black snake which lay coiled upon the 
ground at the opposite side. 

I copy here another instance of this kind from the 
Petersburg (Va.) Index-Appeal: — 

"The Snake's Ability to Chaem. 

" A veritable instance of the peculiar fascination which the 
snake exerts, was witnessed a few days ago within a short dis- 
tance of our city. The gentleman who saw this says he was walk- 
ing leisurely along the road when his attention was directed to 
the movements of a brown thrush which was flitting about near 
a small plum bush, and, at intervals, giving a cry as of distress. 
He walked up to the bush, supposing he would find a brood of 
young birds. He looked carefully, but saw nothing, and was 
walking off", when he noticed that the thrush had returned to the 
bush from which he had frightened it. ■ He waited a moment to 
watch its movements, when he saw it fly down on the ground be- 
neath the plum. There it stood still a short time, then began to 
circle around the bush, still crying in its peculiar tones. This 
circling was kept up for a while, and then the thrush seemed 
gradually to weaken, and at length stood perfectly still — immov- 
able, with its wings partly open, and its head bent forward. He 
drew nearer to the bush, when he heard an ominous hiss, and, 
looking down under the plum he saw a large black snake coiled 
up, and about to spring upon the bird. He frightened the snake 
away and picked up the bird, which made no effort to escape, and 
seemed powerless. In a few minutes, however, the bird revived, 
and shortly afterward flew off." 

- It is also a fact that some men, by an effort of the will, 
can control others, as shown by the art of what is termed 



410 SUBJECTION. 

psychologizing, or putting into a state of trance. This has 
led to a very general belief that, in like manner, certain 
persons have the power of controlling vicious horses, so 
that they can be rendered completely gentle. I have at 
different times seen plausible statements by different writers 
sustaining this theory. But notwithstanding man's intelli- 
gence and will power are greatly superior to that of horses, 
I never have known of a horse being directly controlled in 
this way. I think I may assume, without presumption, that 
I have subdued, and had treated under my supervision, 
more exceptionally vicious horses than any other living man. 
It has been a matter of hard, j)ractical experience with me, 
and I know it is impossible to control wild or vicious horses 
by will power alone. I am so confident of this that I will 
give any man one thousand dollars who will show that he 
can control wild or vicious horses in any such way. I have 
many hundreds of times made wild or vicious horses so 
docile that they would run after, or follow me around, with- 
out the restraint of a halter, or without being touched in 
any way, — a feat in most cases not at all difficult to per- 
form on a suitable subject. And as I have stated in an- 
other place, though the principles were carefully explained 
those present would often insist that it must have been 
done by some secret power. I am thus emphatic to cor- 
rect this false impression, which seems to prevail in the 
minds of all classes of society. 

As explained in another part of this chapter, any 
method of impressing the horse with the sense of helpless- 
ness, such as disabling, repressing by fear, intense pain, or 
the reverse, quieting the nervous irritation by scratching 
the mane and tail, giving apples, etc., can to a great extent 
hold passive the impulse of resistance. The principle is to 
so change or disconcert the general nervous action, as to 
secure the more easy concentration of the nervous forces 



CONTKOL BY THE EYE, OR WILL. 411 

in the direction desired ; hence every method of repressing 
by fear, or revealing jjower by action or voice, etc., may be 
regarded as the expression of this power, which of course 
no one denies. But that by will power alone, the character 
of a horse can be held completely submissive or in a 
marked trancoydal state, is entirely impossible. 

Having taken lessons in psychology many years ago, I 
found that I could to a certain extent control the will of 
others ; yet notwithstanding the greatest effort, I never 
have been able to control horses without first impressing 
the nervous system with a sense of physical power. The 
cases which are most likely to resist such management, are 
stallions which have grown into viciousness through bad 
treatment, and mustangs, or those of a fixed, wild nature. 
The " Wilkins Horse," " Hillman Horse," and " Mustang 
Pony," Cases 6, 7, and 11, Subjection, and the " Hettrick 
Horse," No. 4, Kicking, are cases in point. As a matter of 
experiment, while the " Hettrick Horse " was ti^d to the 
center pole of the ring, I tried for over an hour to even get 
near enough to touch his body without being struck or 
kicked, and if my life depended upon it, I could not safely 
doit; yet by less than twenty minutes' proper subjective 
treatment, his submission was made complete. In proof of 
this, reference could be made if necessary to a great many 
of like character. 

When a horse is thoroughly vicious and unmanageable, 
subjecting him quickly to a full course of treatment, sur- 
prises and breaks up his confidence, on the same principle 
that the eye disconcerts and controls, with the difference 
that now it is the result of direct physical control, when 
by careful management he can be held gentle. But in 
doing this, as I have repeatedly remarked, it is fatal to 
success to let the horse see, at any point, that there is not 
sufficient power to master and control him. Sometimes, 



412 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

when this is well done, the will of the horse is so thoroughly 
broken, and made so submissive, that, though previously 
so vicious as to be entirely unmanageable, he may become 
among the safest and gentlest for use. The main point of 
success, after he thoroughly submits to coercive treatment, 
is to win his affections. 

ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. 

As an additional aid to the reader in studying this sub- 
ject, I include the details of treatment in the management 
of a few representative cases. 

Case 1. — Mt. Vernon Horse. 

This was an eight-year old, sorrel gelding, weighing 
about 1100 pounds. He had an exceedingly strong, tough 
organization, but was most remarkable for his wild, treach- 
erous, sullen nature. He was one of the best types of this 
peculiarity of character the writer ever treated. His head 
was almost the exact counterpart of that of the " Hett- 
rick Horse," Case 4, Kicking, but was immeasurably the 
worse horse to subdue. He could not be controlled in har- 
ness, double or single, was so strong and tough that up to 
the time of his being brought to me, his temper had not 
been subdued by any treatment given him. He would kick 
out sideways and kill a hog whenever brought near one. 
He was in fact one of the most dangerous and difficult horses 
to break ever known in that country. 

I had been at Mt. Vernon, Ohio, over a week when this 
horse was brought in to be treated before the class. The 
moment I saw him across the ring, I made the remark, 
" There is a worse horse than I have ever yet treated in 
the State." The owner, offended at my giving his horse 
so bad a character, said he could handle and drive him. 
Though I knew nothing whatever of the horse beyond 



MT. VEEN^ON HOESE. 413 

what I saw of him at a distance, I stated that there was 
not a man in the country who could drive him, and if I could 
not prove it, I would charge him nothing for my instructions. 
Upon trial with a severe bit, he went straight along in 
defiance of the pulling of ten men upon the reins, when his 
bad character was confessed. 

Had I not been able to prepare the minds of the class 
to see the true character of the horse, he would have 
broken me down ; but in fact my statement was accepted 
as a reasonable explanation, and so I had an opportunity 
to repeat the treatment until successful. I had a very 
large class of experienced horsemen, and it became a 
matter of deep interest for them to see whether the char- 
acter given him would be fully proved by trial. He was 
subjected first to the First Method, which he resisted with 
great energy. This Avas followed by the Second and Third 
Methods, carried to the fullest extreme, when he would 
allow his quarters to be touched all around with a pole, 
and could be handled without difficulty. 
'■ He was next taken in hand for over an hour to obtain 
control of the mouth, but without making the least impres- 
sion upon him. This I expected and explained to the 
class, and put him over till the next day, when he was 
again subjected to the Second Method sharply, and the 
training of the mouth repeated, as before, for about an 
hour, with but little apparent success. This was extraor- 
dinary, there having no horse been brought forward for 
years that did not in two lessons yield to the control of the 
bit ; but I promised that one more lesson would bring him. 
On the day following, he was again subjected in part to 
First and Second Methods, and the mouth again taken in 
hand, though quite sore from the effects of the previous 
treatment. His wonderful pluck and nerve enabled him to 
fight it with the utmost desperation for nearly an hour, 



iU SUBJECTION.— ILL USTEATIVB CASES. 

when he at last gave up unconditionally, and was driven 
before the class and upon the streets with entire success, 
afterward remaining perfectly gentle and manageable. 

A week later, he was exhibited in the street at a little 
town eight miles distant, where he was owned. His good 
character and performances enabled me to make a large 
class there. 

Case 2. — G-allopsville Horse. 

This was a seven-year old sorrel gelding, owned in Gal- 
lops ville, N. Y. He was a remarkably fine, muscular fel- 
low, weighing about 1050 pounds. I refer to him as a 
good type of an extremely bad, unbroken colt, and but a 
slight modification of the previous case. In the preceding 
case, when the horse was hitched up, he would go, per- 
haps, some distance, and then, suddenly and without warn- 
ing, pull ahead, or kick and run away. And, once resist- 
ing, there was no possibility of holding him afterward. He 
was a snorting, treacherous brute of the worst kind, and 
when brought forward for treatment, was considered en- 
tirely unmanageable in harness. 

The touching of the harness, or anything brought against 
his quarters would cause him to jump or kick with great 
fury. At this time I remained but one day in a place, and 
taught my classes in any kind of a building available. At 
this place we had a small carriage house with hard-wood 
floor, which was so unsuitable that to attempt the subjec- 
tion of such a horse here would be not only very difiicult, 
but dangerous. On this account the First Method, which 
was well adapted for his temperament, could not be used. 
Consequently he was subjected first, cautiously, to the 
Second Method, which was a necessary step toward toning 
down his extreme sensibility, but he could not be pushed to 
its limits on account of the hard-wood floor, the smallness of 



OMNIBUS HOESE. 415 

the place, and the large crowd present. He was next sub- 
jected to the Third Method, which was carried to its fullest 
extent. While being subjected to it, if touched with a pole, 
the energy of his kicking was so desperate that both shoes, 
though nailed solidly to his feet, were thrown off in a few 
minutes. Not submitting satisfactorily to this method, it 
became a matter of necessity to subject him again to the 
Second. The place was partly cleared, and the chances 
taken of pushing it to its fullest extent, to which he sub- 
mitted unconditionally. The rest was easy, little more 
being necessary than putting him in harness, when he 
drove off gently. Next day he was taken to Central 
Bridge, where the owner and class were promised that he 
should be driven in the street. It being quite safe now to 
attempt driving him while warm, he was put away till next 
morning, when, after testing a few moments, he was hitched 
up and driven perfectly gentle. The change was regarded 
quite wonderful by those who had known and witnessed 
his previously vicious character. 

Case 3. — Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s Horse. 

This case has some points of peculiar interest, for 
which reason it is included. First, it shows to what de- 
gree a naturally good, gentle horse, can be made vicious by 
irritating, bad treatment; secondly, the ease with which, 
sometimes, a horse supposed to be very vicious can be made 
gentle. The particulars of the case are as follows : — 

This horse was nine years old, a bright bay, remarkably 
fine, strong, intelligent, and weighing about 1200 pounds. 
He was regarded one of the best in a large stable of horses. 
He had been worked to an omnibus, and, it seems, gradu- 
ally became vicious, requiring great care in harnessing and 
handling. He finally bit and crushed a man's arm, and 
inflicted such other injuries as nearly killed him. The man 



416 



SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTKATIVE CASES. 



was rescued only by the prompt interference of the other 
men. The horse was so furious that he would jump at and 
hite other horses, and it was finally only by the use of 
pitchforks, etc., that the stablemen were able to drive him 
into his stall, where he stood with his collar on for over 
three months. No one daring to go near him, his food and 

Avater were let 
down to him from 
above. Unable to 
work him, and 
fearing he would 
kill some one, the 
superintendent 
had ordered him 
shot, but for some 
cause it had been 
put off until the 
period of my visit 
there. 
Before commencing my exhibition in this place, a gen- 
tleman who was especially interested in my efforts, privately 
informed me of this case, and said there was a strong fac- 
tion of opposition there. They asserted they might consider 
it worth while to come and see me after I had subdued 
the horse ; that I could not or would not dare attempt it. 
I at once informed the people of what I had learned, and 
promised, if I could obtain the horse, to take him in hand 
before the class. 

At my earliest opportunity, I called at the stable, and 
the horse was pointed out to me. I was confident I should 
have no trouble with him, and told the superintendent that 
if he would let me have the horse to experiment upon 
before the class, I would subdue him. He frankly said 
that the horse was too dangerous to take any chances with. 




Ym. 285.— Omnibus Horse. 



OMNIBUS HOilSil. 417 

and lie did not wish to take any responsibility in the mat- 
ter ; that if he permitted me to take him, and I should he 
killed, or injured in any way, the public would censure 
him. He said further that the horse was of no value, and 
he had ordered him shot. 

I finally convinced the gentleman that there would be 
no difficulty in the management of the case, and obtained 
permission to take him over to my building, where, in the 
presence of leading citizens of Buffalo, I made him entirely 
gentle in about twelve minutes. He was simply subjected 
to First Method, followed by War Bridle. His collar, 
which had now been on for over three months, could be 
taken off or put on at pleasure. I told the superintendent 
to put him at once at work, and have him treated with the 
greatest kindness, and if at any time he exhibited the least 
viciousness, to rej)ort to me. In about a week he was 
brought back, and subjected to very severe tests before 
them, and proved perfectly gentle. I include here an 
editorial notice of this case, and a letter from Mr. Ford 
written three months afterward : — 

" A Horse that Killed one Man and Injured 
Several Others. 

"We yesterday afternoon visited the amphitheater of Prof. 
Magner, the noted horse-tamer, on Carroll street. We found there 
a large number of our most prominent citizens and horse-owners, 
and all manifested the greatest interest in the doings of the pro- 
fessor. A horse belonging to the Omnibus Company, — a most 
vicious brute, with the habit of biting, and striking with his fore 
feet, and from which those in charge have not been able to remove 
the collar or bridle for over three months, — was brought for treat- 
ment. We understand, by the way, that this horse (a large and 
powerful bay) once killed a man by biting and trampling him un- 
der foot, and recently bit the hand almost off the person having 
him in charge. In about twenty minutes, in the presence of be- 
tween two and three hundred persons, Mr. Magner reduced this 
brute to perfect subjection, so that the groom and himself har- 
nessed and unharnessed him, put their hands in his mouth, and 

2T 



m SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVB CASES. 

handled him in every shape with perfect impunity, the former f U'- 
rious beast being as docile as a kitten. It was a wonderful exhi- 
bition, as we can bear testimony."— 5u^a.^o ComTnercial Adver- 
tiser. 

"Buffalo, Dec. 21, 1869. 
"Peof. Magner, Dear Sir : I consider myself in duty bound 
to drop you a few lines respecting our once vicious horse, ' Man- 
eater,' as we called him. I have often said. What a good thing it 
was we did not shoot him. He was taken out of the stable twice 
for that purpose, when I, on both occasions, interceded in his be- 
half. He is now one of our best horses, as docile as a lamb, and all 
the drivers like him. We work him double or single, as required. 
All this was caused from your few minutes' tuition. You are 
aware of his past history. For months previous to making your 
acquaintance, we could not get a man to harness him, and two of 
our drivers were disabled by him. When you visit our city, please 
give us a call. 

" Believe me, yours very truly, M. Ford, 

''Agent Buffalo Omnibus Co." 

Case 4. — Oxford Horse. 

This case is included for its remarkable peculiarity of 
character, the writer having found no parallel to it in all his 
experience. The horse was seven years old, and was owned 
by a hotel-keeper in Oxford, Miss. He was remarkable 
for his extreme sensibility, courage, and fine form. Al- 
though perfectly gentle to handle or approach, he would 
not bear the least abuse or excitement. Being a fine sad- 
dle-horse, he could be mounted or dismounted in a building, 
but not outside the building with safety. If an effort were 
made to lead, mount, or dismount him outside of the build- 
ing, he would jump and pull away, striking and jumping 
with such fury as made him not only unmanageable, but 
really dangerous. As an illustration of his sensitiveness, 
the owner stated that once, desiring to shoe him, he was 
ridden to the blacksmith's, but refusing to go in, he was 
struck upon the shoulder with the end of the bridle-rein, and 
spoken to sharply. The result was, he took such a dislike 



6XF0ED HOESE. 



to the biacksmitli's shop that he never could be ridden near 
one afterward, and was shod in his stable. 

Two traveling horse-taming parties, at different times, 
had visited Oxford, and tried their skill upon this case, 
both making a disastrous failure. When I visited the place, 
it was made a condition of success that this horse should 
be led, mounted or dismounted, in the street. And so it 
became a matter of either giving 
up the town, or taking him in 
hand. I never had jumped a 
town for any such cause, and 
concluded I would not now. As 
a matter of experiment, I put 
on him two War Bridles, with 
over fifty feet of cord to each, 
and with the aid of a strong man 
led him out of the barn, when 
such a desperate struggle com- 
menced, he to get away and we 
to hold him, as was, perhaps, 

never seen before. The moment he was outside he rushed 
forward, but being restrained, he lunged into the air more 
than fifty times, when we were glad to end it by running 
him into the stable as quickly as we could. Explaining to 
the class that he could not be successfully treated in a barn, 
he was mounted and ridden to a field a mile outside the 
town, followed by the class. The halter was now put on 
outside the bridle, and while still mounted, the rider ready 
to jump off, the hitching-strap was cautiously tied to his 
tail. When ready, the rider instantly jumped from his 
back, when he commenced the most violent struggle to free 
himself. As he went round with great rapidity, he struck 
and kicked with intense fury. When entirely helpless, he 
was quickly untied, the treatment reversed, and carried to 
the fullest extent to make him submit. 




Fig. 286 —Oxford Horse. 



420 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIYB CASES. 

The first form of War Bridle was now put on, when, on 
his being untied, I instantly took him off his feet sidewise, 
following up so sharply that he could not resist, when he 
finally submitted to it. The experiment of mounting him 
was now made, but he resisted so violently by wheeling, 
jumping, and kicking, that the rider barely escaped being 
killed. He was again subjected to general treatment, which 
was carried to the utmost extreme of its power. The pre- 
caution was now taken to mount him while tied. This was 
successful, and he was soon made to stand gently to be 
mounted or dismounted while the head was free. On the 
way back to town, the better to test him, and fix the im- 
pression, he was frequently mounted and dismounted. 
Upon arriving at the public square, these tests were re- 
peated, and the horse led to the stable. This case caused 
me a great deal of anxiety, and it was only by the most 
careful management that it was made so decided a success. 

Case 5. — Hermon Horse. 

This horse was a seven-year old thoroughbred stallion, 
owned in Hermon, N. Y. He was a bright bay, had a good 
head, was finely formed, and looked very much like Cruiser. 
He was raised in Canada, and according to report had 
killed a man there. He had not beeen broken to harness, 
and was kept shut up, and considered a very difficult and 
dangerous horse to break. 

When I was advertised at Hermon, it was insisted as a 
condition of making a class that this horse be subdued and 
driven in harness. I was unable at the time to obtain any 
particulars about the horse, further than that of his being 
a wild, unbroken stallion, — a regular " man-eater." I had 
but one clue, — he was a thoroughbred, and such cases, no 
matter how vicious, I always found the best, or rather the 
easiest, subjects to subdue. This influenced me to strike 



WILKINS HOESE. 421 

boldly for a large class, promising every man his money 
back if the horse could not be made perfectly gentle to 
drive in harness in forty minutes. Being compelled to 
work in a barn, which was entirely unsuitable for such an 
experiment, the treatment had to be limited to Second and 
Third Methods, the Third being depended upon the most. 
He submitted to treatment in about thirty minutes, and 
drove to harness with entire success. Considering the pre- 
vious character of the horse, the success of the experiment 
was really remarkable, and far better than was expected 
by any one ; still there were a few jockeys who were bound 
to find fault. They claimed that the horse would not stay 
broken, and offered to bet $100 that he could not be han- 
dled or driven the next day. This I promptly met by of- 
fering to put up $500 against it that it could be done in a 
week from that time, when they backed down. 

Two days later, on my arrival at Russel, eight miles 
distant, I found the people had been so prejudiced by the 
parties named, that it was necessary to make a special ef- 
fort there. To counteract such an impression, which I 
knew would spread and destroy confidence in my work, I 
telegraphed the owner to bring the horse there at my ex- 
pense and risk, which he did, leading him behind an open 
buggy. Upon testing him, which I did carefully, I found 
him perfectly gentle, hitched him before my buggy, with 
the breeching-straps loose, and drove him up and down hillp 
and through the streets generally with perfect satisfaction. 

Case 6. — Wilkins Horse. 

This is in some respects one of the most interesting 
cases which has been referred to, on account of the 
peculiar character and notoriety given him by the condi- 
tions of his subjection by me (specially referred to in Per- 
sonal Experience, page 511). The last effort to break him 



422 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTRATIVE CASES. 

was two months before my visit there, when he was brought 
to a pretentious horse-tamer, with orders to break or kiU 
him ; but after a week's continuous effort, he was pro- 
nounced as " having no brains," and impossible to subdue. 
As a test experiment, he was controlled by me in about 
thirty minutes, in the presence of the owner and Mr. 
Bonner, in the last-named gentleman's stable. 

He was a well-bred trotting horse, nine years old, a 
bright bay of medium size, quiet and gentle ordinarily, but 
when excited by being touched or handled, he would kick 
and strike with great violence. Touching his nose or head 
would cause him to strike like a wild mustang, while to 
touch his feet, or to attempt to take them up, would make 
him kick desperately. A singular characteristic in this 
case, rarely to be found among domesticated horses, was, 
that if irritated he could repeat the resistance, if he tried, 
a thousand times in succession ; there seemed to be no let- 
up to him. When studied carefully, at such a time, it 
would be seen that the expression of the eye indicated the 
untamable nature of a wild animal. In moving, his tread 
and actions seemed to be like those of a cat. While stand- 
ing, he would, without moving, or changing the position of 
his ears, out of the corner of his eye watch every movement, 
seemingly listless, but ready at any moment to strike or 
kick. He had in fact the true mustang nature, with any 
amount of endurance, and was treacherous to the last 
degree. 

This horse should have been subjected to the Second 
Method, which would have made his control simple and 
easy ; but the circumstances under which I was led to take 
him in hand compelled me to handle him in a box stall, and 
consequently I was limited to the Third Method, which 
was not in reality at all adapted to his case, and I barely 
succeeded with it. I have repeatedly stated that this 



WILKIISTS HOESE. 



423 




424 



SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTKATI\^E CASES. 



method must not be used when the character is such that 
there is incHnation to bite the cheeks or lips, or when the 
head is interfered with, as there is then an inclination, as 
in the mustang nature, to strike, and the treatment will be 
difficult to apply. In this case the result was that both 
cheeks were badly bruised,* making him again very violent 
until cured, when I 
applied the Second 
Method, subduing 
him in about twenty 
minutes. 

I afterward gave 
exhibitions of his 
good character in 
the presence of Mr. 
Henry Bergh, Esq., 
President of the So- 
ciety for the Pre- 
vention of Cruelty to Animals, and other well-known 
gentlemen, when he was turned loose in the ring without 
anything on him, and submitted to handling with the 
docility of any gentle horse. This was one of the few 
exceptional cases that the most patient and kind treatment 
would have no effect upon. As an illustration. Dr. Braily, 
formerly Chief Veterinary Surgeon of U. S. Cavalry, a man 
of exceptionally large experience in handling horses, tried 
for over an hour, by scratching the mane, etc., to get his 
hand upon a certain part of the head, without being able to 
do it. He had claimed that there was no living horse 
whose head he could not in time by this method lay his 
hand upon. I told him it could not be done in this case ; 
if it could, I would give him one hundred dollars ; that the 
only way it could be done was by proper subjectiv^e treat- 




Fig. 288.— Wilkins Horse. 



* Proper treatment for such cases will be found in Medical Department, 



HILLMAN HOESB "JET." 425 

ment. As explained, he made the experiment, and failed 
completely 5 yet in about fifteen minutes' treatment, I 
made the horse stand gentle and allow his head to be 
rubbed or caressed in any manner. In these as well as in 
all other conditions of resistance requiring coercive meas- 
ures, kind treatment, as repeatedly explained, is to be 
depended upon as an aid in fixing and holding the character 
good. 

Case 7. — Hillman Horse "Jet." 

When the facts of this case are considered, it must be 
accepted as by far the most remarkable as well as interest- 
ing case yet referred to. He was a young stallion out of 
one of the best trotting horses in the State. He was but 
little over three years old, and of beautiful form. Not- 
withstanding the conditions of his treatment were of the 
best character, when but little past two years old, in 
defiance of all that could be done, he developed such an 
extremely vicious character as to become at once wholly 
uncontrollable. The circumstances under which I was 
induced to experiment upon this horse were as follows : 

In the early summer of 1875 I made a chance visit to 
Portland, Maine, where I had previously been in 1863, as 
explained in Personal Experience. Meeting Dr. Tewkes- 
bury, a leading physician and prominent citizen of that 
city, he said : " There is one of the most vicious young 
stallions here that has ever been known in the country, 
one of the worst brutes that ever lived. He is shut up in 
a building to prevent his injuring or killing any one. He 
nearly killed one man, Eben Howe, and seriously injured 
several others. If you can subdue him, you will prove 
your ability to subdue any horse, and show that you are 
the greatest horse-tamer in the world." 

As he could give no particulars of the disposition, and 



426 



SUBJECTIOJSr.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 



being there on business with no time or inclination to give 
the matter any serious consideration, I soon after left for 
the West. A few weeks after, I received a letter from 
Rev. A. P. Hillman, the owner, asking whether such a 
horse could be broken; saying that unless I could come 
there and break him, he must be shot. I wrote him that 
I intended to visit Maine the following spring, and from 
the explanation given of the horse, I thought I should have 
no difficulty in his subjection. I advised him not to allow 
the horse to be annoyed or molested in any way, to give 




Fig. 389.— HiUman Horse " Jet." 



apples, etc., occasionally. Upon arriving in the State in 
the following spring, I went to see the horse privately ; 
and upon a careful examination, concluded I could not 
prudently experiment upon him before a class, and so 
announced I would take him in hand immediately after the 
close of the season's business, at which time I went to 
Portland for that purpose. Desiring to make the experi- 
ment a perfectly fair one, I appointed a special committee 
of three leading citizens to invite a few representative 
horsemen to be present to witness his subjection. It being 
feared by those interested that I would play some under- 
handed game, giving the horse medicine, or something that 
would control him for the present, a special committee was 



HILLMAN HOESE "JET." 



427 




428 



SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 



appointed to accompany me from the time I got up in the 
morning until the horse was brought forward for treatment. 
The real difficulty in the management of this case was 
in getting to him safely, and taking him from his stable to 
the place of exhibition. This, however, I was fortunate 
enough to do without accident. KnoAving by his tempera- 




FiG. 291.— "Jet" as led into Portland before being subdued. 

ment that the First and Second Methods would have but 
little if any effect upon him, I determined, as a matter of 
experiment, to try by the Second Method to influence him 
sufficiently to enable applying the Third safely, but failed. 
He was so sullen that he could not be made to turn 
sufficiently fast to aff*ect him. It being entirely unsafe to 
give his head sufficient freedom while upon his feet to 
apply the cord, he was thrown down by First Method. As 



SILLMAN HOESE "JET. 



429 




4S6 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

expected, lie did not resist it, proving it entirely powerless in 
his case as a method of subjection. He was subjected next 
to full pressure. For full fifteen minutes his resistance 
was desperate, running, jumping, and throwing himself, 
when he finally ceased all resistance, and in twenty-four 
minutes all pressure was removed. He was now hitched 
up and driven perfectly gentle, after which he was turned 
loose in the midst of the crowd, with not even a halter 
upon him, and proved perfectly gentle and safe. He was 
then taken charge of by a good practical horseman, Mr. 
Robinson, whom I charged to treat the horse with the 
most perfect kindness and care, and to go to his stable a 
dozen times a day, rub, caress, give apples, etc., which in- 
structions were carefully carried out. 

On the following Monday, as a matter of precaution, he 
was subjected to the Second Method, to which he now re- 
sponded promptly, after which he was harnessed and driven 
for about two hours. A week afterward, as previously ad- 
vertised, he was taken into the street in front of the Prebles 
House, unharnessed, led around, and shown to be as gentle 
as any ordinary driving-horse. Two weeks afterward, on 
the 4th of July morning, he was driven by me in a street 
procession, proving one of the safest and gentlest horses in 
the crowd. 

After the subjection of this horse, a chance occurrence 
nearly destroyed the good effect of all I had done. While 
the horse was standing with a crowd around him, I was 
called away for a moment. I was scarcely outside the 
building when I heard a great uproar inside. I went 
quickly back, when the sight that presented itself was most 
startling. The horse which I had left there so quiet and 
gentle was now under the greatest excitement, running 
from one side of the building to the other, with head up 
and eyes flashing fire, the people panic-stricken, and every 



HILLMAN HOKSE "JET." 431 

man running for his life, and climbing up the sides of the 
building for safety. The better to understand the condition 
of things, I will explain that the experiment was made in 
a building about 75x100 feet in dimensions, that had for- 
merly been used for a riding-school. Back of this was a 
stable running across the entire breadth, with an open door- 
way about ten feet wide between. In this stable were 
standing about twenty horses. While I was out, he sud- 
denly became conscious of the presence of these horses, 
and went racing around trying to get to them. When I 
reached the door, I saw at once that he must be caught in- 
stantly, or the effect of the treatment would be entirely de- 
stroyed. In addition, should he get into the stable behind 
me, the result would be very serious. Keeping between 
him and the horses in the opposite stable, I ran quickly 
forward to his shoulder and grasped the mane firmly, and 
as he ran along, passed the other hand down over his nose 
and succeeded in stopping him. Three times he broke 
away, but by great effort I regained my hold. His old nat- 
ure was fast getting control of him, as several times he 
tried to reach back and bite my legs, and I saw that I must 
get him under control quickly, or run. The fourth time I 
held him, and ran him into a corner against the wall, where 
was a high manger. While holding him, I induced a man 
who was standing upon the manger trying to get away, to 
put on the halter, which was with some difficulty done. 
With this once on, he was immediately as docile and quiet 
as if nothing had occurred. 

This incident, trifhng as it may seem, caused me as 
much anxiety as taking him out of his stall a few hours 
before, but occurring without accident, it passed off with- 
out a comment. To show the great interest with which the 
subjection of this case was regarded, I include a synopsis 
of editorials from the press of the city, also an article from 
Mr. Robinson, a well-known citizen : 



4S2 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIYE OASES. 

" Horse-Training — Wonderful Performance. 

" The announcement that the well-known Hillman horse was 
to be ti-ained at the South-street stable drew a large crowd yes- 
terday morning, as this horse is known to be one of the worst 
cases on record. Some few gentlemen, including representatives 
of the morning papers, took carriages, and drove out to the resi- 
dence of Rev. A. P. Hillman, near the Reform School, to see Pro- 
fessor Magner in his first attempt to handle the animal. . . 

" Last September he was placed in a large box-stall, and had 
not been taken out until yesterday morning. ... In this condi- 
tion Jet was led from the stall for the first time in eight months. 
The line of march was taken up for the city, a man on either side 
holding by the cords attached to him. All the residents on the 
way were in waiting to see the wonderful horse pass, and on reach- 
ing the city a large crowd followed the horse and his trainer to 
the stable. 

" The stable was thronged on the arrival, and after giving the 
horse a slight rest, Mr. Magner commenced upon him. We can- 
not give the method of training, for it would be telling the secret 
by which he governs horses. Suffice it to say that in just twen- 
tv-five minutes the striking, dangerous horse was as mild as a lamb. 
He was turned loose, and wandered about among the horsemen as 
though he were an old truck-horse. The trainer j umped upon his 
back, and afterward harnessed him to a wagon, and drove about 
without the least strap to keep the wagon from striking his heels. 
The gathering was composed almost exclusively of horsemen, and 
each and every one of them pronounced the horse under perfect 
control, and they voted the professor a vote of thanks." — Portland 
Press. 

"'Jet' Conquered. An Interesting Exhibition of 
Horse-taming. 

"When Magner first entered the stall, the demon in the brute 
showed itself in the most striking manner by frantic efforts to 
seize him with his teeth, rushing around his narrow quarters like 
a caged tiger, while the red flash of his wild eyes would have de- 
terred many strong men from approaching him. But the pro- 
fessor paid little heed to the wicked manifestations of this modern 
Bucephalus, and, taking advantage of his quiet seconds, firmly se- 
cured his head with cords, slipped a large hood over his head ; and 
thus blindfolded and fastened in the strongest possible manner, 
handsome 'Jet' was led in triumph to the city, and taken to the 
old riding-school on South-street, arriving there shortly after 9 
o'clock. A large number of people interested in horses, including 



HILLMAN HOESE "JET." 43S 

nearly every physician in the city, were assembled at this place; 
and, on the stallion's arrival, many were the comments on his re- 
markable beauty of form and color, as well as the strength and 
supple grace which every movement revealed. 

"At 10 o'clock Professor Magner cleared the place of all spec- 
tators excepting those holding tickets of invitation from the com- 
mittee having charge of the exhibition, and proceeded to carry out 
the promise of his circular. 

" Of course, the peculiar method by which, in a wonderfully 
brief time, one of the most savage stallions in the State was so 
completely conquered that he was harnessed to a carriage and 
driven around the enclosed yard, fast or slow, as suited, as well as 
backing, stopping instantly at the word, ' Whoa ! ' besides various 
other things, — all proving that the demon had been, temporarily 
at least, exorcised, — cannot be stated; but it was surely done." — 
Portland Argus. 

"Sketch of the Noted Hillman Horse, 'Jet.' ' 

" BY C. G. KOBINSON, ESQ., 

" Who took charge of him after being suhd/ued, 

"I have known 'Jet' since he was foaled. He has been known 
as the finest and most promising colt of his age in the State, being 
of the best trotting blood. He has attracted the most widespread 
notice for his remarkable viciousness. He would look at a man 
pleasantly, yet bite, strike, or kick, as soon as within reach, and 
would fight as coolly and desperately as a bull-dog. If he could 
not reach the person with his fore feet or mouth, he would wheel 
and kick with the quickness of a mule. Any one having a little 
experience with him once, let him alone afterwards. When but 
eighteen months old, he was taken for exhibition to the Lewiston 
fair. It was with great difiiculty that he was taken out after 
standing in the car two days, and he was not, in consequence, en- 
tered for competition. His exploits at this age were numerous. 
For instance, a horseman who did not fear any horse, could not 
be prevailed upon to keep away, and, though warned to keep out, 
incautiously stepped into 'Jet's' department; when, quick as a 
flash, upon getting near enough, 'Jet' cornered and crushed him 
under his feet with mouth and hoofs. When that man was res- 
cued, which was with great difficulty, he needed no more admo- 
nitions to keep away. At different times foolhardy individuals 
were cornered in this manner at Lewiston ; and each time the 
horse had to be clubbed to rescue them. Though notoriously 
vicious, being remarkably fine in form and action, a great efibrt 
was made to use him for breeding. He was put in the care of 
Mr. Jacob Bailey, of Hiram, a horse-breaker who was highly rec- 

28 



434 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

ommended in the language, 'If he cannot break him, no man can,' 
Mr. Bailey had him but a short time, when he wrote the owner 
that he could not manage him at all, and that he must take the 
horse away ; iu fact, the horse came near killing him. Then a 
Southern colored man, who had been used to taking care of blooded 
horses in the South, was recommended very highly to take him, 
and was employed by the owner. He had him but a few days 
before he was beaten. Then, with much difficulty, with strapping' 
and blading he was carried to Portland. In leading him from 
the cars to the stable, he got the man under him, who was rescued 
with difficulty from his ferocious fury. 

" Mr. Richardson and Eben Howe, two of our most experienced 
and successful horsemen, now took him in hand. They attached 
ropes to his feet and head, tied up one foot, taking every precau- 
tion they could, and undertook to lead him to his owner's stable 
between them. In his efforts to resist, and of the men to hold him, 
Mr. Richardson's rope broke, when the horse at once jumped for 
Mr. Howe, catching him by the breast of his thick overcoat, lifting 
him from the floor as if only a mere toy (Mr. Howe will weigh 
about 180 pounds), threw him down, and came clown upon him 
with his knees, holding his grip with the tenacity of a tiger (Mr, 
Hillman's words). Mr. J. Jewell, stable-keeper on Centre-street, 
grabbed a hay-fork and hit the horse three times heavily upon the 
back of the head, while another man hit him in the same place 
with the butt of a heavy black whip ; but his grip was only loos- 
ened by thrusting the fork-handle between his jaws above the nip- 
pers, and thus his mouth was pried open. Mr. Howe was so seri- 
ously injuried that he was unable to attend to his duties for along 
time; indeed, it was regarded fortunate, so bad were his injuries, 
that he was able to regain his health even then* By being tied 
and hampered in the most effective manner that skdl and ingenu- 
ity could suggest, he was led to Mr. Hillman's place in Cape Eliz- 
abeth, where he was kept confined for nearly nine months, until 
taken out two weeks ago, and subdued in the presence of our lead- 
ing citizens by Prof. Magner. Such is but a brief outline of the 
character of this most remarkable horse. It is admitted by all 
that he was the most vicious horse of any age ever known in this 
country." 

Case 8. — Norwalk Horse. 

This case is referred to mainly to show the value of 
proper treatment. When at Norwalk, Ohio, I had a large 

*Mr. Howe was present at the time of "Jet's " subjection, and was still an in- 
valid from the effects of his injuries. 



ALLEC^AK "MAN-EATEE." 43S 

class, and among other interesting subjects brought in for 
experiment, was one having the following histor j : — 

A gentleman in the place raised a fine, four-year old 
colt. In trying to break him, he took to kicking and 
running away. Several horse-breakers tried to break him, 
but failed. The last trial was made by two horse-tamers, 
who, after working upon him two weeks, not only utterly 
failed, but injured him seriously by their severe treatment. 
Upon my arrival there, he was about seven years old, and 
had been running loose about two years. 

This horse was medium sized, well bred, very intelligent, 
and naturally easy to manage, but had been made vicious 
by ignorant, abusive treatment. The owner brought him 
on condition that I should break him. Upon looking him 
over, I stated to the class that there would be no trouble 
whatever in breaking this horse, that he was one of the 
best subjects yet brought in. He was subjected to First 
Method, to which he yielded readily. But as a matter of 
precaution, he was subjected afterward to Second Method, 
when he was put in harness and driven gently without 
further treatment. Next day at one o'clock, as previously 
announced, he was driven without breeching through the 
streets. Though going at a fast trot, and distant fully six 
or eight rods, he could be stopped or started by word of 
command. He was afterward used as a family driving 
horse. 

Case 9. — Allegan "Man-Eater." 

In explanation of this case, I will include statements 
and reports published at the time. 

" The Allegan 'Man-Eater,' the ' Cruiser' of America. 

"Science vs. Strength. 

"About the first of January last, Prof. Magner eame to this 
place, and opened an amphitheater for the training and subjugation 



436 



SUBJECTION.— ILLTJSTEATIVB CASES. 



of wild and vicious horses. At first his claims were looked upon 
with suspicion and distrust by horsemen and the public generally ; 
and only after the most exhaustive and convinciug proofs of hLs 
truly wonderful nerve and skill were exhibited, was he enabled to 
establish himself in their confidence. 

"From here he removed to Plain well, where he met with still 
greater success, receiving a public testimonial signed by one 
hundred and fifty of the leading citizens of that place. But it 
was reserved for Allegan to bring a final test-case. A horse by 
nature of the most desperate a ad vicious character was brought 
in. Ho had previously killed one man, and crippled several for 
life, and severely injured many others. Ho had been owned by 
Dr. Way, of Otsego, an accomplished and skillful horseman. 




Fig. 293. — Allegan "Man-eater." 

" When brought into the ring, the horse exhibited all the pecul- 
iar traits of his character : his eyes became bloodshot, and gleamed 
like balls of fire, he sprang at his trainer like a wild beast, biting, 
striking, and kicking in the most determined manner, breaking 
the ropes and stakes, springmg upon the seats and throwing them 
down, tearing pieces from the center-pole with his teeth, lunging 
at any person who met his eye, actually screaming with rage 
when foiled in his attempts to seize his intended victims. Nearly 
every person was driven from the tent, some in their haste tearing 
holes in the canvas and escaping through the roof. It was a truly 
exciting and desperate struggle of science against strength, which 
lasted for full three hours, when the fury of the beast gave way 
before the superior intellect and science of man, and the horse be- 
came perfectly docile, allowing himself to be handled with ease 
and safety, triumphantly vindicating the truth and practicability 
of Prof. Magner's theory. The next day the horse was handled 



ALLEGAN "MAN-EATEK." 437 

by strangers with perfect safety, and driven upon the streets. 
Altogether, it was one of the most remarkable cases ever witnessed 
in this country, as he was in all respects as vicious as the noted 
English horse Cruiser. We do not write this as a pufF, but to 
illustrate the perfection to which the science of horse- training has 
been brought by Prof. Magner. Many of our citizens who failed 
to attend his lectures here, are now regretting not having done so. 
His great success recently in New York, where he is indorsed in. 
the strongest manner by all the best horsemen, including Mr. 
Bonner, Mr. Bergh, and even the clergy, proves him to be a man 
of real merit ; and were he to come here again, we predict for him 
a flattering reception." — Kalamazoo fMich.^ Gazette. 

" His History (by Dr. Way, who Owned Him, and whose 

Brother He had Killed), which was Requested 

by the Class for Publication. 

"The 'Updike Horse,' better known as 'Man-Eater,' from his 
remarkable viciousness, was out of the Canada horse ' Lyon ' and 
a Messenger mare. He was a wonderfully wild colt, and would kick 
and strike at any one who approached or annoyed him. 

" When three years old, he was caught with a lasso for the 
purpose of castrating him. In the attempt to do so, after being 
confined, he broke the ropes by which he was tied, and got away, 
and it took several men with horses nearly all day to catch him and 
complete the operation. It was found impossible to take the 
sticks off next day, and he was allowed to run, to die or not, in 
consequence. He ran wild afterward until five years old, when 
he was sold to Nathan Austin, who, after being seriously injured 
by him, succeeded in getting him in harness to plow by the side 
of a gentle horse, and plowed him all day with one of his fore feet 
tied up, notwithstanding which he would kick and strike next 
morning as bad as ever. 

" By long-continued, severe, exhausting work of this kind, he 
finally could bed him down in stall and handle him a little. 

" Mr. E. Higgins got him next. In his efibrts to drive him, he 
kicked himself loose, destroying the wagon, and defied for a long- 
time the utmost efibrts of three men to catch him, and after being 
put in stall no one dared to approach him. In two weeks he was 
sold to Mr. Lewis Hadden, from whom he got away in the attempt 
to drive him, and it was with the greatest effort that he was 
finally caught ; and after the- most violent effort could finally be 
handled by Mr. Hadden, but by no one else. He kicked and 
nearly killed one of his boys, and he sold him to John Hogle. In 
a short time he became so vicious that he could not ^ ^et out of 
the barn or approached. 



438 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

"A company of horse-tamers next agreed to break him. They 
succeeded by a lariat rope in getting some of their rigging on him, 
but he soon Avas loose, kicking and running in the street with a 
number of ropes, etc., attached to him. After a great etFort, and 
taking nearly all day, he was caught. They promised to break 
him next day, but that night they left, leaving their ropes and 
straps on the horse. 

" I bought him next. He was very poor and weak, and I put 
him in the barn, did nothing to aggravate him, tried to give him 
some oats in a dish, but he kicked and struck at me. I kept 
trying him in this way for several days, until I could approach 
and handle him a little. In the attempt to drive him in double 
harness, he kicked himself loose, breaking the wagon to pieces. 

'' AlDout a month after this he struck and kicked me, and I 
only saved my life by rolling under the 'tnanger, where I had to 
remain until relieved by neighbors. He would now kick or strike 
any one approaching him, injuring quite a number, one man from 
Kalamazoo getting three ribs and one arm broken by him. He 
kicked and struck my brother when he was attempting to feed 
him, not only killing him, but in his fury literally mangling his 
body by striking and kicking it about in the stall. 

"After this he was not approached or touched by any one for 
several weeks. 

" Another party of horse-tamers next took him in hand, and 
after working with him for two days, could not do anything with 
him — not even put a blanket on him, or take their ropes off. After 
leaving my hands, at least a dozen horsemen and horse-tamers 
tried to break him, and all failed, and he was recognized and be- 
came known as the most dangerous and vicious horse in the 
State, if not in the country. 

" He has been driven every day since you handled him (one 
week). He is not in the least injured, and continues as gentle 
and manageable as he was the day you handled him. 

" It is needless for me to say that all your class here wish you 
the greatest success in your humane efforts. All would be glad to 
have you come back. I am, with great respect, 

'' A. B. Way, M. D. 

" Otsego, Allegan Co., Mich." 

All the methods of subjection were used upon this case 
to their utmost limit, without any restrictions as to injury, 
as the horse was considered worthless, the question of in- 
terest being. Can the horse be subdued ? 



ALLEGAN '<MAN-BATEE." 



439 




».v,^i%ii»M*ir.'!t-& 



440 



SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 



Case 10. — Roberts Horse. 

I include this case because it was the first really vicious 
stallion subdued by me ; also to show the bad effects of 
rough treatment, and the facility with which a horse that 
has been even very vicious can be made gentle when the 
treatment is right. 

This was an " Ethan Allen " stallion, about eight or 
nine years old, owned by a 
gentleman named Roberts, 
in Utica, N. Y., at the time 
supervisor of the fifth dis- 
trict of that city. The 
horse had previously been 
of such good character that 
he was used as a family 
driver, A groom in the 
habit of drinking occasion- 
ally, was employed to take 
charge of him ; and to make 
him show up, was in the 
habit of whipping him until 
he grew vicious and got to 

fighting. The owner, hearing of this, discharged the man, 
and took charge of the horse himself; when, the first he 
knew, the horse pitched suddenly at him, biting him, and 
undoubtedly would have killed him had not two men who 
happened near driA^en the horse off" with rails. 

When I visited the city, the horse had been confined 
to his stall for seven months, fed through a hole or window 
in the wall, it not being considered safe for any one to go 
near him. In consequence of his serious injuries, Mr. 
Roberts was yet confined to his room, a helpless invalid. 
As a condition of doing anything there, the citizens insisted 
that I should first subdue this horse. Consenting to makQ 




Fig. 295. —Roberts Horse. 



EOBBETS HOESE. 441 

the experiment, I was accompanied by the Butterfield 
brothers, one of them proprietor of a large livery stable, 
the other better known as General Butterfield, Mr. Golden, 
a well-known merchant and horseman, and the reporters of 
the Telegraph and Utica Herald, to Mr. Roberts' residence 
in the upper part of the city. 

When these gentlemen saw the vicious character of the 
horse, fearing I would get injured and they censured for it, 
they unanimously requested that I would have nothing to do 
with him, saying that if I would not, they would do all they 
could to help me form a class. I told them to borrow no 
trouble about me, to keep out of my way ; that the 
experiment must now be made, and I would take care of 
myself. I was fortunately able to get the horse out of his 
stall without serious difficulty, and into a small yard or open 
wagon house, on one side of which was a loft or haymow, 
where the gentlemen named seated themselves, beyond the 
reach of possible harm. It is necessary to explain here 
that at this time I had no well-defined theory of manage- 
ment, simply doing the best I could to adapt my efforts to 
the control of such cases as were brought me for experi- . 
ment. Usually I succeeded fairly, sometimes quite flatter- 
ingly, though not unfrequently, when compelled to take 
some exceptionally bad case, I made more or less failure. 

I had repeatedly heard of this case, but was cautioned 
by friends to have nothing to do with him. But having a 
desire to see the horse, and not knowing just how to pro- 
ceed, I was betrayed into the promise of taking him in 
hand ; and once starting in the matter, I was bound to go 
through at all hazards. Still I made no special preparations, 
and in fact had with me but a simple War Bridle cord. 
Having the horse out in the yard, as stated, controlled by 
two long ropes fastened to his bridle and held by myself 
find assistant, the question arose in my mind. What shall 



442 SUBJECTION.— ILL USTEATIVE CASES. 

I do next ? I could not safely let go or put on any rigging. 
In fact, I had none. Without stopping to consider, I 
resolved to take the only chance open for me, that of com- 
bating him in the most simple and direct manner. He 
was a wonderfully quick, energetic fellow, and just as 
vicious as he was quick, having no idea but to jump at a 
man. Should I succeed, his control would be simple and 
easy, whereas if I failed I should be completely helpless 
and in his power, the result of which would be serious if 
not fatal to me. A supreme effort was my only chance, 
and I prepared to make it. I took as short hold of the 
rope as I could with safety, measured the chances, and said 
to the other man, '' Let go." The moment the horse was 
given freedom, he jumped for me. At the same instant I 
sprang for his tail, which I was barely able to catch and 
hold. The struggle now was for me to hold on and keep 
upon my feet while going around rapidly. I barely suc- 
ceeded, soon making him so helpless that I could safely 
let go and reverse a few times, after which I quickly put 
on the War Bridle, and made him feel all the power I could 
exert with it. The whole time of doing this was not more 
than five or six minutes, when he became completely docile, 
following me around and allowing me to handle him as I 
pleased. I now advised that he be treated kindly, given 
apples, petted, and put to work. He was driven almost 
daily afterward, while I was in the city, by members of the 
family, proving as safe and gentle for use as he was in the 
first place. 

When I look back upon this experiment, and consider 
all the circumstances, I regard it as one of the most sue ■ 
cessful I ever made. It was, at the same time, so fool- 
hardy that after mature experience I would have hesi- 
tated long before taking such a risk. It would be simple 
and easy enough in ordinary cases j but when the horse 



EOBEETS HOESE. 443 

is extremely vicious and quick, there are two sources of 
danger : First, of being kicked while catching the tail, on 
which account it cannot be safely attempted with mustangs 
or horses of this character ; second, of missing the tail, or 
of inability to run fast enough to keep up with the horse 
in his rapid circular motion. In which case there would 
be no alternative but to let go or be dragged under the 
fore feet. In either case, should the horse be really vicious, 
as in the present instance, I would have been brought within 
reach of his mouth, helpless to resist his biting or striking, 
which would be extremely perilous. 

Case 11. — Mustang Pony. 

The question is frequently asked. Can any horse be 
subdued ? Practically there is no horse that cannot be 
subdued ; but I will refer to a case, the only one I ever 
found, that would not yield to treatment, though I am con- 
vinced that with time and proper opportunity there would 
be no real difficulty in making even this case manageable. 
Two years before my visiting the northern part of New 
York, there had been shipped into that part of the country 
seven car-loads of wild mustangs. Two of these ponies, 
up to the time of my coming, could not be broken, and one 
of these is the subject referred to here. At North Lawrence 
I had for subjects a six-year old, runaway, kicking mare 
that had not been harnessed in two years, and a cream- 
colored mustang pony. As was often the case, there was 
nothing said about the bad character of this pony, but there 
was something about his apj)earance that I could not 
understand, and had never seen in any other horse. He 
crouched up in a corner, apparently indifferent to all around 
him, his head down, and his ears, which were heavy and 
long as a mule's, thrown back and out. His under lip was 
large^ and hung down, leaving his mouth in appearance 



444 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE CASES. 

partly open. The eyes were large, showing the sullen 
expression of a wild animal. A very noticeable feature 
was the extreme size of his nostrils. The fist could almost 
be put in one of them. An indifferent look at him would 
indicate a rather scrawny, low-necked, pot-bellied, dirty, 
long-haired fellow ; but a closer examination showed won- 
derfully large bone and muscle for a horse of his size. 

I stated there would be no difficulty in making the 
mare drive gently within fifteen minutes 5 but I did not 
know what I could do v/ith the mustang, as he appeared to 
be one of the worst horses I over saw, and not a suitable 
subject to experiment upon before a class. Upon trial, the 
mare submitted to treatment perfectly in about twelve 
minutes, was driven on the following day to the next town, 
and remained gentle afterward. Upon cautiously testing 
the mustang, he exhibited the most fearful resistance. If 
a stick were pointed at him, or he were touched in any 
part of the body, he would jump, strike, and kick several 
times in succession, then crouch into the farthest corner, 
rolling his eyes, snorting, and blowing like a bellows. He 
was with great difficulty subjected to Second and Third 
Methods, which were carried to the farthest limit prudent. 

While under pressure, he would sometimes strike and 
kick desperately, then again stand sullen, doing nothing ; 
finally seeming to submit, the moment the pressure was 
removed he resisted as badly as before. It was the same 
in relation to the Second Method ; he would either go 
rapidly around a few times, or stand sullenly, refusing to 
go around, regardless of the most severe punishment, 
several times dropping down upon his belly ; yet the 
moment he was free, he would fight as recklessly as ever. 
After bringing out his bad character, the owner stated 
frankly that the horse was really worthless, and could not 
be broken, and we were at full liberty to see what we could 



Mustang pony. 



445 



do with him. Consequently it became a matter of consid- 
erable importance to subdue him, and the full force of 
treatment was used upon him for two hours, without seem- 
ing to have the least permanent effect. 

It is proper to state that the First Method was not at 
all suitable for this case, as this class of horses, when the 
leg is tied up, will either throw themselves violently or 
drop down upon the 
belly sullenly, while 
the War Bridle would 
have no effect upon 
him. The better to 
explain his peculiarly 
lithe, desperate char- 
acter, after being 
treated for nearly two 
hours, with one leg 
tied up, he dropped 
forward upon his 
head, turned clear 
over like a wheel, and 
came forward upon 
his feet, making a complete somersault without any seem- 
ing effort; and the next instant he jumped clear of the 
ground, struck, and kicked out furiously with both hind 
feet. I give a good portrait of his head, also an illustra- 
tion of this remarkable feat, which was witnessed by the 
entire class. 

He was several times- brought under sufficient control 
to be harnessed in shafts and driven quietly for perhaps a 
minute, but with the first freedom he would fight back 
with the same insane fury as before. I made the statement 
that such a horse could not practically be broken before 
the class, and I doubted whether anybody could break him. 




Fig. 296.— The mustang. 



U6 



SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIVE OASES. 



The owner, a strong, practical man, laughed, saying he 
believed he could break him, anyhow he should make a 
thorough trial ; as much as to say, I will show you that I 
can break a horse that you cannot. Weeks afterward, he 
informed me that he made the most thorough trial, not 
only working with him for days, but actually almost starA^- 
ing him, without having the least effect upon him. 

My time being limited, I could not continue the treat- 




FiG. 297. — The Mustang in the act of turning over, as described. 

ment longer. In addition, an indispensable condition of 
success was stopping when greatly excited, and repeating 
when cool, and treating him slowly in connection with the 
utmost kindness. But not being able to make a perfect 
success of the experiment, about half of the class demanded 
a return of their money, and received it. This made a good 
deal of stir and talk, as it was considered a great thing to 
find a horse that we could not manage ; and I knew it would 
go like wild fire, and prejudice the people against me in 
that part of the country. I made a special request that all 



Mustang pony. ui 

present would meet me at the next town, and bring their 
friends with them. On the day following, there was a big 
crowd assembled, and evidently the tide of feeling was 
decidedly against me, ft was my usual custom to simply 
explain what I could teach and do, then amuse the audience 
by the performances of the ponies, which was of itself one 
of the best illustrations that could be given, showing the 
value of intelligent treatment. But on this occasion some- 
thing more substantial was needed, and I prepared myself 
for the emergency. I had the people assemble in a hall, 
and commenced by explaining the singular adaptation of 
the domestic animals to the wants and requirements of the 
people among whom they are found in the different parts 
of the world. I then referred to the different peculiari- 
ties of character common to each family or class, and 
followed by an explanation of the changes produced by 
chance causes, making the inference clear that exceptions 
were possible, either from a lack of intelligence or extreme 
wildness, which would make their training and management 
extremely difficult. I pointed to the fact that one of the 
horses treated the day before, and driven there that day 
by the owner perfectly gentle, was broken, as promised, by 
less than fifteen minutes' treatment, a horse that twenty- 
four hours before it was not supposed could be successfully 
managed by any man in the country. 

I then took up the principles of subjection with their 
effects (as explained in this and in first chapter), and finally 
referred to the general success and appreciation of my 
efforts. All seemed to see the point, and I made a large 
class. Even those of the day before who took their 
money back, voluntarily subscribed anew. The result of 
this was an overwhelming success, and interest that was 
almost unprecedented in my experience throughout the 
country. 



U8 SUBJECTION.— ILLUSTEATIYE CASES. 

The other pony referred to was found a few weeks 
afterward at Brush's Mills, in the same county, where I 
had a large class. The case yielded to treatment in about 
thirty minutes, allowing himself to be ridden or driven 
gently. His subjection was so thorough that on the day 
following he was driven to a buggy to the next point of 
engagement, about eight miles distant, proving perfectly 
gentle and manageable. 




OEAPTER XIV. 



Denton Offutt, Rarey's Instructor. 

After the information given me in relation to Mr. Rarey 
being instructed by OfFutt, referred to on page 384, I 
called at the office of the Twf, Field, and Farm, and 
requested the privilege of examining the files containing 
the issues in which Mr. Offutt's book was published. This 
was kindly granted, and I read it through with great care. 
It struck me that the dialogue between man and horse, and 
the recipes for scents or drugs given for approaching and 
controlling wild or vicious horses, would be of interest to 
my readers, and worth preserving, so I determined to ob- 
tain the copy for publication, if I could. 
- With this object I called upon the chief editor, Mr. 
Hamilton Busbey, and placed the Harey matter, before re- 
ferred to, in his hands for perusal, at the same time stat- 
ing my desire for the matter mentioned. During the con- 
versation, he gave me the facts in relation to Mr. Richards' 
statement regarding Offutt and his instruction of Rarey, as 
follows : — 

In October, 1877, he (Mr. Busbey) was dining with Mr. 
Keene Richards at Blue Grass Park, when the subject 
of horse-taming came up.* Mr. Richards stated that the 
founder of the horse-taming school was a native of George- 
town, Ky., and that his name was Denton Offutt. Mr. 

* Keene Richards, Esq., a leading breeder and turf patron of Kentucky, died 
March 19, 1881. 

29 (449) 



450 DENTON OFFUTT, RAREYS INSTRUCTOR. 

liichards himself was a pupil of Offutt, whom he described 
as uneducated, but full of originality ; that when quite a 
young man, John S. Rarey came to Greorgetown and stud- 
ied with Olfutt, and later on practiced the system in Ohio, 
before going to England with Mr. Goodenough.* 

The conversation was continued in the library, when 
Mr. Richards handed Mr. Busbey a book which Offutt had 
published for the benefit of his pupils, all of whom he 
pledged to secrecy. 

Mr. Busbey was very much interested in the book, and 
carried it with him to New York. One day he let Mr. 
Robert Bonner have it to examine, and the next morn- 
ing he received the following note from that gentleman : — 

" There are many interesting things in Offutt's book, 
some things that are entirely new to me, and Avell worth 
co]3ying. The dialogue between man and horse, beginning 
on page 37 and ending on page 46, contains the essence of 
all that Rarey ever taught. He evidently based his sys- 
tem on that." 

Mr. Busbey, beginning with January, 1878, published 
the work of Denton Offutt in the Turf, Field, and Farm, 
and it attracted much attention. The dialogue, which I 
thought worth preserAdng, and which Mr. Bonner found so 
interesting, by the kindness of Mr. Busbey I have copied, 
and here present to the readers of this work. 

Dialogue between Man and Hoese. 

" Man. I wish to put my hands on your face, and come near 
you. 

" Horse. If so, you must let me see that you will not hurt 
me, nor will have anything about you that will, nor anything 

* Of the partnership of Karey and Goodenough, Mr. Eichards was fully aware. 
He was in London at the time of their operations there, and upon being asked hy 
Mr. Pembroke whether he would advise him to subscribe to learn the secret, replied 
that he need not go to that expense, as he could explain it all to him, which he did, 
also loaning him a copy of Offutt's book that he had with him. 



J)1AL0GUE BETWEEN MA'N AND HOESE. 45 1 

that smells badly. I am a stranger to you ; all that will oftend 
any of the five senses, I will be compelled to guard against, and 
those senses must have the proof that you will not hurt me, before 
I will allow them to be on me. 

" M. 1 wish to put my hands all over you. 

" H. This you may do, by commencing at the face. Com- 
mence rubbing on the face, and repeat it ; then pass on down the 
neck, first as slight as possible, and as I become used to it, rub the 
harder. Remember always to rub the way the hair lies smooth. 
My tail is, when I play, to be held up high ; as my pride and beauty, 
you must be careful in handling it. But after you raise it, be 
sure to repeat it, and raise it and put it down several times, until 
it goes up quietly. It becomes habituated by use. 

" M. Then the more I rub you, and repeat it, the quieter you 
get ? 

" H. It is so in all beasts. 

" M. I wish to show you a pretty blanket, to teach you to let 
a man's coat or lady's dress hang down by your side, and in win- 
ter to keep you warm. 

" H. You have shown me that you would feed me, and have 
also shown mo other new things that have not hurt me. I will 
let you use the blanket about my face as soon as I can see and 
smell it, and then, when I feel it and hear the rattle, I will better 
understand it. If you change it for one of another color, I want 
to look at it and examine its quality. 

" M. I will then spread it quietly over you, and repeat it, 
then let it hang doAvn at the tail, and let it fall ofi" at the heels 
and sides for a while ; then I will fasten it to the tail. This will 
make you used to things falling ofi" your saddle or person, so that 
they will not frighten or make you kick. Will you let me hang 
a rope over you — about the creases of your neck — so as to let it 
drag along by your legs, and then over the back, to hang against 
the hips, and as you turn to rub the hocks ; then to put on the 
gear and fasten a ropo to the ends of it, to get you accustomed to 
them, and put lines on your back ? 

" H. Yes, sir ; if you will do it quietly, and not have the 
rope too hard or rough, so as to make me think it is a snake bit- 
ing, or thorns sticking in me. .If you put on the gear and lines 
(there are so many things about me at one time), I want you to 
put me by the side of my old acquaintance, Ball, for I have often 
seen him in the wagon, and the side that is against him I am not 
afraid of being hurt, and where he goes I will go. Young horses 
are fond of following their old friends ; but you must remember 
not to have me encumbered by a lot of gear, and then — or to have 
things knocking and jerking about. 

" M. How shall you be started ? If you will go before, I will 



452 EXTRACT FROM OFFUTT'S BOO:^. 

follow. I want to feel my way five steps at first, or less than 
that. If alarmed, then let me know if anything is wrong by 
rubbing ine over the face and neck, then after starting and stop- 
ping some three or four times, you will understand that. 

'' H. If you fasten me to such things and rush me ofi", and 
commence fighting me, I will then commence rearing and j erkmg 
to get loose and free from such abuse. Remember that confidence 
lost is hard to restore. Remember that all have to learn, and 
practice is important in exercise. 

" M. With your practice of the use of the bridle, and friendly 
acquaintance with me, will you not allow me to ride you ? 

" H. Yes, if you wall show me that you will not hurt me. 
This is done by your rubbing me over the face, neck, and body ; 
then get along by my side, rising quietly in the stirrup, then down 
in the same place, until I can know your will. Now I am 
inclined to go with Ball round the fields, to learn how to walk and 
to turn to the right and left. There are cases that we learn to 
turn but one Avay, sometimes from sore mouth, other times from 
the tongue of the wagon striking against us, other times from 
alarm of gear, others from whips, so as to pull more than I know 
how ; consequently I look for the whip, and begin jumping up in 
confusion. 

" M. How shall we teach you better than by taking level 
pieces of ground ? The wagon can be drawn slowly and quietly, 
and repeatedly practiced until it is well done. To be well done 
must be well practiced, for the mind to comprehend or design. 

" H. How can you teach me to stand, if you have no plans or 
signs for me to comprehend the difference between going or stand- 
ing ? I am always looking for the whip or a jerk of the bridle. 

" ilf. If you are to know my will, I cannot let you know but 
by first letting you know my design until understood ; as for your 
stopping, I then speak to let you know I wish you to go along ; 
but if you repeat this, you know that — 

"J?. If I am to stand while you get on me, or for you to get 
seated in your carriage, or otherwise, you must first take the reins 
in your hand, then speak to me to let me know when to go ; for 
if I am always to be on the look for the whip for the sign to start 
by, I will be off" in time to keep clear of it ; for between two 
opinions, doubting both, it is certain to be as often wrong as 
right, but guess if you are ready or not ; but as soon as you come 
to me and commence whipping me, and halloo, "Whoa, I then look 
for the whip ; whenever you halloo. Whoa, confidence is lost in 
you, and I fim looking for the whip, and friend horse shows signs 
for us to be off*. 

"if. How shall I teach you the acquaintance of umbrellas, 
handkerchiefs, my hat, my gun, or buffalo skin, and many other 
things you will meet with ? 



DIALOGUE BETWEEN MAN AND HOESE. 453 

" H. All these things are easy ; first, you must rub me in the 
face to get my attention, and then let me look at it in a quiet 
manner, and not get me scared and fearful of it, for I cannot 
always relieve myself of it at my will ; after I look, I want to 
smell of it, then to feel it, then hear the rattle of it ; if I feel at 
the time you rattle it, I more clearly comprehend it. First com- 
mence slowly and continue until understood. Fire off the gun ; 
at first it should be upward, as this is a new thing to me. 

. " Let the smoke and all be blown from the face of the horse, 
for in all cases are changed as soon. In various cases he will stand 
while the fire goes up when under foot, or at the nose, though it 
causes much alarm ; some stand well in the woods, others will not 
let persons stand round them and fire. In all cases of noise, keep 
the face in the direction of the noise ; steamboat or car, as it 
passes, turn their face to it ; it is a natural desire to see all things 
that they hear or smell. 

" M. How do you like the drum ? 

'' H. It is pleasing to the organ of combativeness, as soon as 
I find it will not hurt me. Let me look at it and smell it, then 
rub it against my neck and shoulders, and where it is to rub me 
as you ride ; then lightly tapping it, then smell it, and rub it on 
me ; soon I will be after you with it, for I am inclined to give my 
attention to new things ; keep my eyes in the direction of the 
sound, it is easy to get me to follow the drum or any other music 
in like manner. 

" M. A flag is pretty in the breeze and sunshine ? 

" H. Yes, it is. 

" M. You are fearful of its motion ? 

" H. Yes, I am. 

" M. Now the best way is to use. the senses God has given 
you for your safety, for one failure would lose your life by poison, 
as you are surrounded by poisonous snakes ; but remember to sec 
you are right, then go ahead ! 

"if. It is in this case as in all others ; or let it be the cover- 
ing always flying about ; fold it up, let me see, smell, and rub it 
over my face ; then commence slowly by waving it over me, and 
as soon as the proof is enough all is right. 

"In many cases it is better" to put on first the bridle with the 
gagerarian side-reins, martingales and crupper, to hold the head and 
all in one attitude, that he is more willing to hear your friendly 
and quiet oflering. In this manner you will soon let him know 
your will in repeated proofs, and all is right then. As soon as it 
is done, you then change the bridle ; 3^ou should begin by showing 
the same ; if he then receives it quietly, you may forever depend 
upon him if there be no cause for change. 

/' M. Why do you pull back when I go into your stall ? 



454 EXTEACT FEOM OFFITTT'S BOOK. 

" H. I am fearful of you ; if you will put your hand on my 
hip before you come in, and let me know you will not hurt me, I 
will stand. 

" M. You appear to have been displeased with this stall ever 
since you got hurt and scared here. 

" H. I never like misfortune nor the places that cause them, 
for it is bad memory that forgets them. 

" M. Why are you fearful of the bridle ? 

" H. My mouth has been hurt by it and the fingers, my ears 
pulled, sometimes my eyes — flies have hurt them ; I am trying to 
take care. 

" i¥^. I will put on the bridle to let you know my will ; check 
reins, martingale, and crupper to hold all fast ; so you are com- 
pelled to hold still ; then quietly handle the ears and lips ; I find 
there is no hurt, all is right. I will in this case put on and take 
ofl' another bridle over this until all is right. It may be important 
in some cases to do so with other things, or to .spread a blanket 
over them, and over the head, and one down the back to the heels. 

"if. I am more cautious than fearful. I do not fear the 
blanket ; after examining it closely you may fasten it to my tail 
after putting it over the head and down the back to the heels, and 
letting it fall at the heels and sides ; but be careful in opening and 
spreading it over the body, and frequently letting it go to the 
tail ; if it does not cause me to stir up the dust, or in some degree 
tend to alarm me, you may know it is all right. If you wish it 
to drag after me, first let there be a piece of cloth hung on each 
side of me, some six or eight yards long, so as to rub each side of 
me at the same time ; after this is done, fasten it to my tail. Let 
me be as wild as I may in all cases, have me by the bridle, and 
rub me in the face, speaking kindly to me, and not make me move 
only by my own will. 

" ilf. If you are alarmed at anything around you, and will 
not move ofl" quietly, the best way is to show you that you will 
not be hurt ; then you will move off" quietly ; so when you are 
alarmed, you had best stand until the alarm is over, to prevent a 
fright. 

'' H. When you wish me to get on a bridge, ice, or in a boat, 
or into a strange stable or narrow walk, how will you manage to 
accomplish your design ? 

" M. I will go before you and show the best way. I am in- 
clined to look around at it in as many different ways as possible, 
so, by turning about and leading up on one side of the place, and 
then the other, sometimes the width of the door, the trial will suc- 
ceed gently. Be careful, the less you suppose the better ; as like 
begets like, he is soon to contend. 

"H. Remember that all animals are desirous of regular 



DIALOGUE BETWEEN MAN AND HOESB. 455 

exercise to wear off the unpleasant feelings produced by standing 
and want of water and motion ; it is necessary to quiet and com- 
pose the system, for those cause a horse to be gentle ; is in a better 
condition to remain ui.dry, but that he may be hungry and ready 
to receive your kind offer of some good food, and then exercise 
prepares them for further teaching. In many cases you exercise 
the horse and teach him the use of the blanket on his back, or to 
the rope over his body and along his sides and legs, to teach him 
not to kick ; you should not fasten the rope to anything, as it 
only tends to scare him. 

" M. "Will you lie down on a sandbank, or plowed lana, or 
on a snow pile, that is free from sticks or stones, and all that is 
calculated to hurt you ? 

" H. I am cautious where I place my body, so I will look 
around me to see if there is anything in the way before I lie down. 

" M. How shall I teach you to lie down ? 

" H. First rub my fore leg on the inside and out, until I find 
you will not hurt it ; then take it up and put it down until I 
know there will be no hurt ; then loop around the leg, to hold it 
up, for fear of its slipping off ; then tie a string between the leg 
and foot. 

" M. What advantage is there in teaching you to lie down ? 
In some cases there is none, but all horses are aware of their con- 
dition ; some that are wild, after being handled in this way seem 
to be convinced that they will not be hurt, and as they become 
more convinced by rubbing their legs and flanks, or any other 
part that will tend to quiet them while down ; but if any accident 
has previously happened to him, you can fasten him and do what 
is necessary ; so all that will make him docile is calculated to 
make him more useful and safe. 

" H. All teaching is best that is quietly performed, and then 
repeated until well understood ; all would perform this ; after it 
is practiced some several times, you may take hold of the foot and 
the bridle, and cause them to lie down ; and you may by fasten- 
ing up the leg, then gently tapping them on the front part of the 
leg, cause them to lie down at your command ; if you wish them 
to sit upon their hips, you must place their fore feet out before 
them, then let them rise gently, and you should stand closely to 
the sides to hold the bridle and press against them that you may 
steady them up. In some instances of this kind, it is better to 
use the curb bridle, }?et you should be cautious not to hurt the 
mouth, as it is calculated to produce bad habits. 

" M. You have long been rearing, kicking, pitching, and 
placing your head between your legs. 

" if. All creation resents mistreatment, and this is the cause 



456 EXTEACT FEOM OFFUTT'S BOOK. 

of these actions ; some are inclined to practice them more than 
others. 

" M. You say in some cases they are forced to do wrong, and 
some you are forced to make them do right ; there are various 
ways to force them to obedience. The first Ls to fasten them 
together with a strong rope around their neck, giving them not 
more than one foot apart, so that they cannot rear up aad fall 
down, then leading them about to let them know they are fast, 
mount them and dismount them ; in this manner no horse can 
throw his rider. Another method is to have a leather strap, so 
strong that it cannot be broken, and draw around the waist so 
tight that he cannot rear up. Another is to put on them side lines 
to teach a horse to pace. 

" H. Our reason and observation teach us that a thing to be 
done well, the mind must well comprehend the subject of it, and 
practice makes it the more perfect." 

"Recipes foe Taming with Medicine. (Veebatim.) 

" To catch a horse, mule, or cow, take oil of rhodium, oil of an- 
ise, oil of cinnamon, three equal parts, mix them together, and let 
them smell it by putting it on your finger ends, and rubbing it on 
or in the nose, and in ten or twenty minutes they are ready to re- 
ceive your kindness and your plan of teaching, etc. It has an as- 
tonishing effect on the animals of the world. I have managed 
dogs in a wonderful manner by it. It soothes the wild and timid. 
With a cow I have never failed to do all that may be required. 

"TO sicken hoese with tobacco. 

•' Washing a horse with a strong decoction of tobacco will sub- 
due his viciousness. One quart will make a nervous horse very 
sick. Others of a bilious temperament require a gallon. 

" great seceet foe taming. 

" One pound of oatmeal, a quarter pound of honey, half Law- 
rance, made into a cake and baked. Put the cake into your bo- 
som and keep it there until it sweats, and when the horse has 
fasted twelve or twenty -four hours, give it to him to eat. Then 
use him kindly and gently. 

" The second best plan is to use the chestnut or scurf from the 
leg of another animal. It is found on the inside of the fore leg, 
above the knee, and on the hind legs adjoining the hocks. By 
drying and pulverizing it, and putting it into a goose quill that 
will hold a dose for each nostril, it serves to sicken or stupefy him. 

" Third, The Spanish manner is to milk the mare and mix 
salt in it, and give it to them to lick from your hand some thre^ 
or four times a day. In three days they become fond of you," 



CHAPTER XT. 



FAMILIAR TALK WITH THE READER. 

It may be asked, " Have you given in this work all the 
secrets of your system?" I answer, Yes, without any 
reservation whatever. In the development of the principles 
presented in these pages, I was compelled at first to grad- 
ually feel my way, as it were, following up every clue that 
promised success, until, by practice and experience, the 
principles and methods of treatment herein given were de- 
veloped, which must be considered as constituting a com- 
plete system. 

The one important point in which I was most interested, 
and of which I made a specialty, was the art of direct sub- 
jection^ to learn how far I could be successful in changing 
and holding the character as desired. With a variety of 
the most difficult cases to treat almost daily, I was com- 
pelled to demonstrate the practical value of every phase of 
treatment that promised good results, even including the 
various kinds of drugs supposed to be effective in taming 
horses. 

In time I noticed the peculiarities of disposition and 
character upon which certain lines or combinations of treat- 
ment would have the best effect, until I was able to system- 
atize the treatment, with great accuracy, to every condi- 
tion of temperament and character of resistance. If not 
sure of the best treatment to use, I soon learned it by 
what I termed testing, or exciting the horse sufficiently to 

(457) 



458 FAMILIAR TALK 

have Mm reveal his true character, when I could easily 
determine the line of treatment to pursue. 

For nearly twenty years I have been experimenting 
almost continually in this way upon all kinds of horses, so 
that I have been able to prove beyond doubt, by the 
most exact experimental tests, the effectiveness and 
superiority of the methods of treatment given. I was at 
first, like others, greatly misled, by the pretensions and 
assumed success of Rarey, into believing that there must 
be more in that method of treatment than I had yet been 
able to discover. On this account I was induced to try the 
treatment hundreds of times in cases upon which I had prac- 
tically failed, with the hope of catching this hidden secret, 
until I was able to comprehend beyond all doubt its exact 
effect upon all kinds of horses. This ultimately brought 
me to the conclusion that back of it was gross trickery, 
which it was necessary, if possible, to unearth and explain. 
Indeed, the fascination and mystery in the public mind in 
relation to this treatment was constantly a source of 
embarrassment to me. The question, " Is your treatment 
anything like Rarey's ? " was quite common. Or, if I 
hinted the least doubt of being able to control as by magic 
the most difi&cult case brought me, it would be made the 
basis of the unpleasant assertion that Rarey claimed to be 
able to subdue any horse in the world. If I could not 
assume to do as much, it was plain evidence that my treat- 
ment was not so good as his. Of course, when once able 
to form a class, I could make clear the limited and imper- 
fect character of his treatment. Indeed, I would consider 
this work seriously defective were the explanation given 
to be omitted, as without it there must exist a strong vein 
of mystery and doubt as to the correct principles and true 
key of subjection. 

I have also been frequently startled, even of late years? 



WITH THE BEADEE. 459 

by the bold pretensions of parties I have occasionally met, 
who claimed to be able to perform the most wonderful feats 
with horses j such, for example, as being able to make any 
horse in the world — ^no matter how vicious — stand gently 
to be shod, or be able to drive or ride any horse without 
breeching, etc., etc., in a few minutes. The positiveness 
of such assertions frequently led me to believe they really 
were in possession of new and important secrets, as I 
knew I had no treatment by which I could in so short a 
time perform such feats in the control of all cases. But 
invariably, in tracing the matter up, I found that their 
knowledge of the subject was very limited, being entirely 
based upon the use of one of the simpler methods of sub- 
jection given ; and further, that many such persons had 
obtained their knowledge by attending one of my classes 
years before, or had learned the points indirectly of others ; 
proving conclusively that I had nothing to learn from them, 
and enabling me to determine at once just what they 
could do. 

I refer to these cases to show that if I could be influ- 
enced by the pretensions of such persons how easy it must 
be to impose upon and mislead those having but a very 
limited knowledge of the subject. 

As to the use of pretended secrets in the way of drugs, 
etc., it is very easy to settle all doubt in the matter, as any 
one can obtain and experiment with them for himself. 

I have tried to make every point so simple and plain 
that the reader can easily understand that there is no 
mystery in the control of horses, beyond that of skillful, 
intelligent treatment ; that when managed according to the 
laws of their nature, it; becomes a very simple matter to 
subdue and control even the most vicious horses ; that 
every horse made vicious or unmanageable, is so, in reality, 
as the result of ignorance and bad treatment. 



460 FAMILIAE TALK 

It is evident that a very little carelessness or inatten- 
tion is liable to cause irreparable damage to a finely con- 
structed engine. The adjustment of parts must be kept 
perfect, — -no friction permitted. Managed by a skillful 
hand, it will do its work smoothly and reliably. But ma- 
chines are of a fixed nature, governed by laws that are 
unchangeable ; so that when the conditions and adjustment 
of parts are understood, they are easy of management ; 
while in horses, as explained, there are such greatly vary- 
ing degrees of size, strength, intelligence, and endurance, 
that their subjection and management requires, if any- 
thing, a far higher order of care and skill than is neces- 
sary in the management of even the most complicated ma- 
chine. 

A man must have patience, and the courage, if neces- 
sary, that borders upon rashness ; yet always holding him- 
self within the limits of safety. Whatever the difficulties 
or failures, like the skilled mechanic, he should only ex- 
hibit the more care and patience, until successful. It is 
especially important that there be no fool-hardiness, lack 
of judgment, or carelessness that wiU expose the horse to 
danger or accident. It is an invariable fault of those who 
claim any skill or experience in the management of horses, 
to be over-confident, to think too much of the little they 
know of applying the treatment, and too little of the diffi- 
culties and dangers of resistance in the horse to be treated. 
I have known so many fine horses needlessly excited or 
abused, strained, or even kiUed, by the sheer lack of judg- 
ment and care in the man, that I regard it as proof of the 
rarest qualifications of fitness and skill to succeed without 
accident. 

A man who assumes to know all about horses, and 
" can break any horse," etc., only gives to any sensible, 
observing man the strongest proof of his ignorance. The 



WITH THE EEADEil. 46l 

inost ignorant man I ever knew in the business was the 
greatest pretender, and a good type of the many pretentious 
horse-tamers who have of late years infested the country.- 
One of the points that impressed me most forcibly in ques- 
tioning the genuineness of Mr. Rarey's pretensions, was 
his bold assumption of claiming to know the horse's every 
thought, and to be able to subdue any horse or animal in 
the world, — a boast that he repeated nearly every time he 
appeared before the public. 

Notwithstanding I handled daily all sorts of horses, 
and was fortunate enough not to have any serious accidents 
occur, I never handled a horse of decided courage and 
spirit that I was not doubtful of succeeding without more 
or less trouble or accident. Many a time, in handling a 
critical case, my nervous system would seem to be fairly 
chilled with anxiety and apprehension, until I had suc- 
ceeded. The greater my experience and opportunity for 
studying horses, the more could I see reasons for the 
greatest care and attention to every detail. A little care- 
lessness, for example, might cause a h,orse to slip and break 
his leg, or be otherwise seriously injured. I have known 
horses when even led out loy the halter, in jumping around, 
to break the leg, or be seriously lamed. Because there has 
been no accident, it should not be accepted as reason for 
not anticipating danger in future cases. No violent lung- 
ing, or careless, hap-hazard throwing, should be permitted, 
especially in the management of sensitive, valuable horses. 
It is as much the part of success to prevent accidents as 
to ultimately subdue the horse ; because carelessness, or 
management that would expose the horse to strain or 
serious injury, would destroy the very object and value of 
the treatment. Every precaution should be taken in 
securing a good place for operations, with every requisite 
for the sure and easy control of the case. Nothing should 
be hazarded to chance. 



46^ FAMILIAK TALK 

Of course it cannot be difficult for any ordinary man, if 
he follows the directions here given, to break the average 
of bad colts and horses. But if the case is at all critical, 
success must depend upon making no mistakes, and being 
thorough. Every failure is an undoubted proof of the lack 
of judgment and proper effort. True success in this as in 
every other field of effort, must be the result of compre- 
hending the conditions, and regulating the efforts accord- 
ingly. All these conditions require careful observation 
and thought. If the horse is bad, and there is not full 
knowledge of him, there should be an effort to make him 
reveal his character, when it will be easy to determine the 
kind of treatment to be used. 

In building a bridge or steam machinery, where large 
risks to life are involved, extraordinary precautions are 
taken to insure safety against accidents, by requiring much 
more strength or power than is expected to be used at any 
time. Every part is tested as to its strength and weight, 
far beyond what it is ever required to sustain, and, when 
completed, is again proved, in order to give assurance of 
its safety. 

Now in the subjection of horses, on whose docility and 
security so much is risked, I cannot too strongly urge the 
necessity of at least equal prudence and care to insure the 
greatest possible degree of safety in their use. All horses, 
especially those used for carriage and family driving, 
should be tested very thoroughly. There should be no 
fear of any rattle or noise of wagon, nor should any of the 
usual minor causes of fear be noticed by him while driving. 
There should be entire freedom to let the cross-piece run 
against the quarters, and yet the driver should be able to 
stop him instantly, without the horse offering the least 
resistance. Catching the rein under the tail, and all such 
incidental causes of irritation, should not be noticed by 



• WITH THE EEADBR. 463 

him. It is not sufficient that the horse should bear these 
tests when not excited, but they should be borne under 
the most severe trials, to give assurance of perfect safety. 

Certainly if a horse will not bear these tests, no mat- 
ter how fine and good he may be in other respects, he 
should be rejected for such use. 

The better to show the liability to failure in consequence 
of the want of judgment in carrying out the treatment 
properly, by persons having even the best of experience, I 
will refer to a few cases in point : — 

While in New York City, a gentleman brought me a 
Kentucky mare that had resisted every effort to break. 
The last time, hitched to a sulky, she ran away, and was 
lost forty-eight hours. I took her in hand, and subjected 
her carefully to the Second Method, and succeeded in 
about fifteen minutes in driving her in the ring without 
difficulty. But knowing that to fix the impression of being 
entirely fearless of the shafts, etc., would require consider- 
able driving, I directed one of my men who had assisted 
me for years, and who, so far as experience was concerned, 
should have been far more than ordinarily successful in the 
management of such cases, to take her in hand and work 
her carefully during my absence. I particularly cautioned 
him in regard to her extremely sensitive and positive 
character, and that he must be very careful not to get her 
excited and to fighting him, and left, supposing he would 
do as I directed. But to my surprise, on my return in the 
evening, I found the colt seriously injured from the abuse 
of exceptionally severe treatment. By carelessness, he got 
her excited and to fighting him, when he subjected her to 
the Third and other methods, carrying the treatment to the 
extreme of abuse. 

The injury, however, was only superficial. In a few 
weeks, when well, in the presence of the owner, to whom 



4G4 FAMILIAE TALS 

I explained the facts, I subjected her again to treatment in 
the same manner, and drove her in shafts without breech- 
ing. I explained to him that my treatment in the building 
would not break her; that she must be treated out of 
doors, and carefully driven in poles until thoroughly gentle 
to rein and submissive to them. In a word, the treatment 
must be made carefully progressive (as explained in chapter 
on Colt Training). He was advised to employ a good, 
patient man, and if the treatment were carried out as 
directed, there would be no dif&culty in making her per- 
fectly safe and gentle. 

Before leaving New York, in 1872, a leading gentleman 
requested me to remain over a day, and show a man in his 
employ how to break a very promising trotting mare. He 
stated that the man informed him that she was so ugly and 
unmanageable he could do nothing with her. I knew the 
mare well, as she was once brought to my place for treat- 
ment. When driven with other horses, if not given her 
own way, she would balk. She was extremely sensitive, 
but perfectly gentle until excited or maddened, when she 
would become very stubborn, and difficult to manage. 

I explained to the owner at the time that we could not 
break her under canvas ; that she should be worked on the 
track, with other horses, at first moderately, but gradually 
pushing until she balked, when she should be subjected to 
treatment until submissive. Then the driving should be 
continued up to the point of proving her perfectly safe 
and reliable. 

The man who had been employed to handle her was a 
sort of professional trainer, who claimed much skill and 
experience. He had attended the class of every horse- 
tamer who had visited New York for many years, including 
mine. He was quite an enthusiast, and on this account 
was employed by the gentleman to break this mare. 



WITH THE EEABEB. 465 

Next day I met this man, by appointmentj in the upper 
part of the city, where the mare was kept. Upon inquiry, 
the man stated that he had hitched her to an express 
wagon, and she refused to pull. He made up his mind he 
would make her go, and threw her a dozen times or more, 
when he resorted to the whip. In fact, he entered into a 
regular fight with her, which ended in the mare becoming 
so stubborn and mad that he could do nothing with her. 
Said he, ^' She 's a bad one ! " 

I was certainly amazed that after all my instructions 
he should be guilty of such bad management in this case. 
I told him he should have known better in the first place 
than to hitch such a sensitive mare, that was entirely 
unaccustomed to drawing loads, to a heavy express wagon ; 
that it was the quickest and surest way of spoiling her ; 
that the First Method of Subjection was not at all adapted 
to her case ; that it would make her submit so far as lying 
down, but no farther ; that he should have hitched her to 
a light sulky, at first moving her slowly so as to get her 
into good humor, then gradually letting her out. If she 
balked, he should have tried the War Bridle, holding the 
Second Method as a reserve power. Yet he could not 
understand this, though it was repeated to him over and 
over. 

I hitched the mare to a light sulky to test her, and let 
her go moderately for a few minutes, then gradually let her 
out, testing her quite hard, but she never offered to balk. 
She needed, in fact, but little more than careful, good 
management. 

In Personal Experience, page 486, I make special 
mention of the difficulty I had in training Turco to turn to 
the motion of the whip ; that I worked upon him for three 
days without making the least progress ; and that finally 
he jumped over the girt upon the hay-mow to get away 

30 



466 FAMILIAE TALK 

from the abuse of the punishment to which I was subject- 
ing him. Yet as soon as I comprehended the idea of doing 
it properly, I was able in a few minutes to make him do it 
without difficulty J showing that the real trouble was in my- 
self and not in the horse. In looking back over my past 
experience, I can see that hundreds of times I struggled 
and worked with horses for hours, and even days, regard- 
ing it a great feat when I finally succeeded, even after the 
use of the most severe treatment, — cases which, had I 
known how to treat them as I by after experience learned 
to do, I could have succeeded in subduing in from a few 
minutes to an hour. 

A very common and dangerous cause of trouble is in 
being led to believe that because a horse has submitted to 
treatment in one place to the point of making him docile, 
he must prove equally so in others. To show the danger 
of this, I will refer to an incident in point : — 

While at a small town in Western New York, a man 
informed me that he had a six-year-old runaway colt that 
was entirely unmanageable. He wished to join the class, 
and bring in this colt for treatment. In consequence of a 
serious indisposition at the time, I could not do the work 
of teaching a class, and so informed the people. There 
waSp however, so much interest in the matter that they 
volunteered to be satisfied with the instructions of my 
assistant^ who was fully competent to give all the es- 
sential points, and to make the experiments. I cautioned 
him in regard to the character of the horse upon which he 
would experiment, for though I did not see the horse, yet 
from the description given I knew he was one that would 
require very careful treatment ; that no matter how well 
he might drive before the class in the building, on no ac- 
count must the attempt be made to drive him out of doors. 

With these precautions observed, I apprehended no 



WITH THE EEADER. 467 

trouble. But the experiment upon the colt was so success- 
ful, he driving around in the building without breeching, 
entirely gentle and fearless, the people requested that he 
be driven outside. My assistant, not being able to explain 
the principles and conditions of success so that they could 
understand (a dangerous omission which I feared he would 
make, but which I supposed I had guarded against) , finally 
consented, being persuaded he would have no trouble in 
doing so. When the doors were opened, the horse drove 
all right until he got just outside, when he made a spring 
forward, pulled away, and made directly for the canal, which 
was close by. He jumped from the bank to the bottom, a 
distance of twenty-two feet, crossed, and soon disappeared 
down the tow-path. Being apprised of the trouble, I told 
the owner I would pay any damages sustained by the horse, 
and gave orders to have him caught and brought back. 
Fortunately the horse was unharmed, and I again subjected 
him to treatment, when he was driven without difficulty. 

I made the incident an opportunity for explaining that 
a very common cause of failure is in supposing that because 
a horse has submitted to treatment in one place, and ap- 
pears perfectly docile, he will prove equally so in all places ; 
that there would be no more difficulty in driving a horse 
out of doors than in a building, provided he could be worked 
there as in the building. But the difficulty was, we could 
not do this on account of the crowd that always hung 
around, making it impossible to have sufficient privacy to 
subject him to treatment. 

The public, somehow, could not understand this condi- 
tion, and it was continually the cause of more or less trouble 
to me. A very bad case would frequently be brought for- 
ward to be experimented upon, when by subjecting to treat- 
ment he could be made to submit to being hitched up and 
driven around in the building perfectly manageable ; but 



468 FAMILIAE TALK 

when I explained that the treatment must be repeated 
out of doors to make him work equally well there, they 
would regard it as sufficient proof that the horse would not 
stay broken, and that the treatment was goad for nothing. 
Or, after being taken home, if not proved perfectly gentle 
there, the treatment and experiment were regarded as a 
failure. On this account I was continually between two 
fires ; for to admit that there were any conditions of fail- 
ure would prevent my making a class, and to have any bad 
luck with a horse after his having been experimented upon, 
would be equally bad. Not unfrequently I would be com- 
pelled to drive horses in the street without the necessary 
preparations, and take desperate chances ; or after driving 
without trouble a really vicious, dangerous horse, the owner 
would think he could do as much, and insist upon hitching 
him up and driving, and if any accident resulted, the fault 
would of course be laid to me. Very often, after desper- 
ate horses that had previously resisted all effort to break, 
had been driven before the class with perfect docility, the 
owner, and not unfrequently the entire class, would de- 
mand a return of their money, unless I would guarantee 
that the horse could be driven home with perfect safety, 
and this, too, after I had taken every precaution to explain 
to them, before forming the class, that I could do but little 
more at the time than to teach the owner how to manage 
him — that he must be treated at home according to the di- 
rections I should give. 

For example, when at a certain town in Northern Maine, 
a five-year-old mare that had defied every effort to drive 
in harness was brought to me for treatment. It being im- 
possible to shoe her, as a last resort they put her in an ox- 
frame to do so, but she struggled so desperately they could 
tack on but one shoe. I stated that there would be no 
trouble in breaking this mare^ but that I could not do it be- 



WITH THE EEADEE. 469 

fore the class in a barn; that so far as making her gentle to be 
shod, I could do that in a few minutes, but to drive her in 
harness successfully, she must be treated out of doors, which 
could not be done on account of the crowd. They agreed 
to be satisfied with what I could do in the building. Hav- 
ing but a very small place to work in, it required the great- 
est skill to manage her successfully, and in less than ten 
minutes she submitted to have the feet handled, and finally 
to be driven, not only in the barn, but out of doors, as this 
was insisted upon. Yet the owner, and the entire class, 
were dissatisfied because I would not guarantee that the 
mare could be driven home to a carriage with perfect safety 
and so I returned their money. A very little effort out of 
doors would have made this mare perfectly gentle to be 
driven, as I stated to them, and which was proved two 
days afterward, when she was driven in a crowd, without 
breeching, by a horse-jockey who traded for her. 

At a place in Central Ohio, a horse that was afraid 
of a top carriage, one of the worst cases I ever saw, was 
brought in for treatment. After driving him successfully to 
a top carriage under the canvas, it was insisted upon as a 
condition of their being satisfied, that I should drive him out 
and into the streets. I did so, at great personal risk, barely 
succeeding. The owner now insisted that he could drive 
the horse just as well as I. I explained to the class that 
the horse should be treated out of doors before he could be 
driven Avith safety, and to prevent an accident, which I knew 
would inevitably follow, and destroy the confidence of the 
people in that part of the country in my efforts, I bought 
him. 

I refer to these cases particularly to impress inexperi. 
enced persons, as shown by the first cases referred to, with 
the necessity of having a correct idea of the treatment for 
the case, and then carefully and patiently persevering until 



470 FAMILIAR TALK 

successful. The last-named cases indicate that the work 
must be thoroughly done, where the horse is in the habit 
of resisting, and that in critical cases, stopping short of suc- 
cess in even a single point would precipitate failure. 

The extent to which horses are used, and the depend- 
ence of life and property upon their docility and perfect 
obedience to control, together with the great depreciation 
in their value when they become of unreliable character, or 
have habits fastened upon them which render them danger- 
ous and unfit for use, makes such instructions as will pre- 
vent and overcome these difficulties of the first importance. 
Yet notwithstanding the magnitude of the interest at stake, 
there is no duty in its true sense that is left so much in the 
hands of ignorant, irresponsible persons. Now while it is 
conceded that the horse is the most noble and valuable of 
all the domestic animals, and his possession and training 
are in every sense ennobling, the suspicion and taint of 
prejudice and jockeyism in the training and driving of es- 
pecially fine and valuable horses have been so strong that 
if a gentleman even dared to own one, it was regarded as 
a sufficient cause for social ostracism. If he wished to test 
his speed, he dared not take a public road, but usually re- 
sorted to some back street or by-lane to escape observation 
and comment. 

When Mr. Bonner had the hardihood to buy Dexter 
(at that time the fastest trotter in the world) for his own 
private use, paying for him the large price of $33,000, it 
served to give the horse his true status in the estimation 
of cultivated, intelligent people. Other gentlemen of wealth 
soon followed his example, and purchased the best horses 
obtainable at fabulous prices, until the emulation has become 
so great that some of the best horses now kept for private 
driving cannot be bought for $100,000. 

In like manner the study and practice of the art of 



WITH THE EEADEE. 471 

taming and controlling horses has been regarded as so low 
and degrading that persons having any regard for their re- 
spectability would scarcely dare give it attention. But 
happily, as the importance of this knowledge is made plain 
to the people^ the impression has become almost universal 
that it is worthy the study of the best minds in the coun- 
try, and that it should be taught as a specialty in all agri- 
cultural colleges, and as far as possible to owners of horses 
in every town and county in the country. Certainly it 
cannot be denied that when it is engaged in with the sense 
of responsibility, care, and skill which it demands, it is in 
reality worthy of being ranked among the most important, 
interesting, and elevating of the professions. 




CHAPTER XVI. 



PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 

There has been such a desire to know how I came to 
engage in this business, that I venture to give a short ac- 
count of myself under this head. 

I came from Ireland when a boy of fourteen, and, being 
thrown upon my own resources, I engaged to learn the car- 
riage-making business in Wellsville, N. Y. At the end of 
three months I was compelled by circumstances to seek 
employment elsewhere. I next engaged in the same busi- 
ness by the month at Almond, N. Y., where I remained 
two years, after which I obtained employment at Dryden, 
N. Y., where I remained nearly two years. While here, I 
arranged to go into business with a young man in the man- 
ufacture of carriages in Myersburg, Pa. ; and after continu- 
ing the business nearly a year, I bought him out, and con- 
tinued there alone for four years. During this time I be- 
came so successful a manufacturer of carriages that I took 
the first premium at two county fairs in Towanda, the first 
year on single, the second on double, carriages. The diffi- 
culties of this achievement can be better understood when 
it is stated that I did but a small country business, doing 
most of the work of painting and trimming myself, besides 
being compelled to compete with several large manufac- 
turers. 

During my residence here I first exchanged carriages 
for horses, and this led me to dealing in them. In this 

(472) 



PBESONAL BXPEEIENCE. 473 

way I became owner of horses of all kinds of habits, and 
was forced to the task of trying to break them. The bet- 
ter to illustrate some of the difficulties I experienced in do- 
ing this, I have included an account of one of these cases 
in the chapter on Balking. But the most remarkable and 
difficult case I had at this time was a medium-sized gray 
mare, which had the habit of balking and lunging. She 
could trot a mile in less than three minutes, and had the 
nerve and courage to go until she would drop. She would 
either balk, or suddenly rush ahead at the top of her sj^eed, 
and make a succession of lunges in the air. She was one 
of the worst horses of this character I eyer saw. On com- 
ing to the top of a hill she would jump several times, then 
rush down headlong. On reaching the foot of a hill she 
would rush up in the same manner. While driving, if she 
met a person or team, she would get into the same tantrums, 
and rush by regardless of all restraint. At such a time 
she would throw herself into the air against the bit with 
such fury that it would be impossible to hold her. By 
blindfolding and other devices I succeeded in driving her 
during the three months which I owned her, though I 
had many narrow escapes. While driving this mare, my 
neighbors would frequently wish to ride with me ; but af- 
ter trying it once it was rare that any one could be induced 
to repeat the experiment. 

I learned afterward that she had defied every effort to 
drive her before coming into my possession, and was never 
driven after I sold her. Had she been properly broken 
in the first place, she would have been a valuable horse ; 
but she was ruined by bad treatment. Though I succeeded 
in driving her, still I wished to subdue her so thoroughly 
that she would show no inclination to resist. After ex- 
hausting my patience and ingenuity, I tried as a last resort 
a, remedy which I had often heard horsemen recommend ; 



474 PEESONAL EXPEEIENCE.. 

namely, to tie her to a tree and whip her with hickory 
withes until she would surrender. I made the experiment, 
but it only made her so excited and bad that I could 
scarcely drive her at all afterwards. 

As I have stated elsewhere, whipping is a means of 
punishment, and not, properly considered, of subjection. 
Consequently, if there is serious resistance, it should not be 
resorted to, as it is liable to do a great deal of harm. In 
the first place, tying and whipping a horse does not give 
him any idea what it is for ; hence it has no direct relation 
to the resistance. In addition, it so intensifies and rouses 
the bad nature that the habit is, if anything, made worse. 
Another cause of trouble is that when excited the trainer 
is liable to overdo and seriously injure himself. I did not 
recover in a week from the excitement and exhaustion 
caused by whipping the horse as referred to. This mare 
was the only one in all my experience that I failed to re- 
form. 

At the expiration of my lease, I closed my business, and 
started out without any definite idea as to where I should 
go, but kept on until I arrived at Somerset, in Southern 
Kentucky. After waiting several months for " something 
to turn up," my attention was called to a fine horse which 
had a very bad reputation for running away, and could 
only by the use of much rigging be driven by a horse-tamer 
from Pennsylvania. The owner saw that I fancied the 
horse, and so -got the man to hitch him up for me. While 
riding with him, I wished to take the reins, which he re- 
fused, saying, " No man can drive this horse but myself." 
Though I had no uso for the horse, I determined at once 
to buy him, and did so. There was great curiosity to know 
what I could do with this horse, from the fact that this 
man had said that if I attempted to drive him, he would be 
^ure to run away. Before hitching him up, I took him to 



PEESONAL EXPBEIENCE. 475 

the woods, and worked on him until confident that I had 
him under control. When it became known that I intended 
to drive him in the streets, it caused great excitement. 
Many called it mere fool-hardiness, and tried to prevent it; 
but ftiiling, they all came into the street to witness the per- 
formance. My jockey friend volunteered his assistance, 
but I told him I needed no help, and that I believed I could 
show him some things he didn't know yet. When ready 
to start, a couple of men in the crowd began to fight, one 
of them being knocked down, and falling directly under- 
neath the horse. To the surprise of cA^erybody, he stood 
perfectly still until the man was taken away, and then 
started off like any gentle family horse. His altered be- 
havior aroused the suspicion that the horse had been 
" doped," or drugged ; but as he remained perfectly gentle 
during the entire time I remained in the place, the mystery 
surrounding the affair was very great. 

After spending nearly a year traveling in the South, I 
returned North, and finally brought up in Pittston, Pa. 
While here, there boarded in the same house with me a 
book-canvasser, who came in one morning and said he had 
made $3 in a couple of hours' time. I thought this was 
doing exceedingly well for a cold^ rainy morning, and it 
led to my starting out to get names for him on commission. 
I succeeded that afternoon and the next day in obtaining 
seven orders, which so encouraged me that I bought him 
out, and industriously pushed this new business with great 
success among the coal-dealers between there and Hawley. 

During one of these canvassing peregrinations I hap- 
pened to put up over night with a man named A. L. Burns, 
at Dunning, Lackawanna Co. This gentleman was an in- 
telligent, progressive farmer, who had raised a fine Hamil- 
tonian stallion, then past two years old, which proved of 
a very vicious temper. 



476 PERSONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

While Mr. Burns was milking his cows in the morning, 
I slipped into the stable and subjected the horse to simple 
treatment, making him follow me around in the barn with- 
out any difficulty whatever. After breakfast the owner 
went to the barn to show me the horse, when I walked in 
and led him out, and made him follow me around as gentle 
as a pet.''' The change was so great that he was led to ask 
if 1 had not been doing something to the horse. I an- 
swered, " Yes ; I went out before breakfast and got ac- 
quainted with him ! " He said, " If you will show me what 
you did with him, I will give you $50." This seemed to 
me to be too much for so little knowledge ; but wishing the 
money, the idea struck me instantly of instructing a num- 
ber of persons at a nominal charge, and thereby fairly earn- 
ing it ; and in answer I said, " That is too much for you to 
pay ; but if you will get ten of your neighbors, at $5 each, 
I will teach you for nothing." He at once went among 
his neighbors, and in a short time returned accompanied by 
a number of them, and handed me f 50.-|- 

It now occurred to me that I was in a bad corner? 

* Since "writing this paper, I am Informed that this was the same horse that was 
shot a few years afterward for his extreme viciousness. The statement made by 
Mr. Burns authenticating this is as follows : " I drove this horse single until he was 
five years old, when I put him into other hands for one year, and he became un- 
manageable. I then sold him to J. & A. Wells, who afterward sold him in Middle- 
town, N. T., and the authorities there ordered him shot on account of his vicious- 
ness." In 1878 the writer was in the stable where this horse was confined and shot 
a short time previous. 

f While writing this article, it occurred to me as of su£Blcient interest to write to 
Mr. Burns for the names of those comprising this class. After much trouble in 
obtaining his address (having heard nothing from him for over twenty years) I 
wrote him, and received the following statement: — 

" So far as I can remember, the names of the men in the class at my house 
were J. D. Burns, Prompton, Pa.; J. E. Meyers, Canaan, Wayne Co., Pa.; J. S. 
Collins, Keyser, Lackawanna Co., Pa. ; Andrew Coss, Canaan, Lackawanna Co., Pa. ; 
Alva C. Bemeer, Canaan, Lackawanna Co., Pa. ; L. C. Darte, Ariel, Wayne Co., Pa. ; 
Jason Myers, and myself. Tour friend, 

A. L. Burns, 

'■^ I)wnni7ig, Lacka. Co., Pa." 



MY FIEST CLASS. 



477 




478 pekso:nal expeeience. 

knowing that I really knew nothing about horse-taming ; 
but I had the money, and felt that I must, if jDossible, carry 
the matter through, so as to be able to hold it. 

In the neighborhood was one of the most unexception- 
ally vicious, biting mares ever known in that country. 
When turned loose, she would run at a man with all the fe^ 
rocity of a bulldog ; but of all this I knew nothing. When 
I organized the class, I observed that all got up overhead 
except one, who from a side stable turned the mare loose 
upon the barn floor where I was standing. With ears laid 
back and mouth open, she instantly ran for me, showing the 
most savage ferocity. I saw that she would bite and tram- 
ple me under foot. Directly behind me was an empty hay- 
mow extending three or four feet below the floor, thus mak- 
ing a fall of from seven to eight feet from the top of the 
girt to the ground. I turned 'quickly, but not having time 
to jump, I threw myself head foremost over the girt. The 
ground was covered with stones and limbs. I was consid- 
erably stunned, of course, by the fall, but not seriously in- 
jured. Fortunately I had a common slip-noose halter in 
my hand, which I retained. When I arose, I saw the mare's 
head over the girt looking at me. Overhead were my 
scholars out of harm's way, laughing at my defeat. I con- 
sider the event of sufficient interest to give an illustration 
of it. 

The mare had nothing on her, and it was evident that 
no one could approach her with safety. Here I was at the 
first movement helpless and defeated ; but my temper was 
up, and I was bound to go through with the matter at any 
hazard, and make it a success. I still held the halter in 
my hand, and scarcely thinking what I did, I picked up a 
stick, and hanging the head-piece on one end I reached up 
and carefully placed it over her head. I now put the end 
of the stick against her jaw to keep her head from me, and 



ALMOST A PAlLUEB. 479 

climbed upon the girt. Getting as short a hold of the halter 
as I could, I took the chances of jumping towards her tail, 
and caught it. The momentum of my jumping pulled her 
head after, and threw her hind parts from, me ; a fact which 
I improved upon, and pulled her around rapidly five or six 
times, making her dizzy and disconcerted. I then reversed 
quickly to the other side, catching the tail in the same man- 
ner and running her around rapidly. This I repeated sev- 
eral times, when I had her sufficiently disconcerted and 
under control to make the next step ; namely, tying up her 
leg and throwing her several times, after which I put on 
the old form of War Bridle and made her follow me, mak- 
ing the experiment a complete success. This took me not 
more than ten minutes. So far as I know, this was the 
first attempt ever made to halter a horse with a pole, or to 
run one around in this way to make him dizzy and helpless. 
The necessities of the moment drove me to this course as 
the only way out of the corner in which I was placed, and 
it was successful. It would be an easy matter for me to 
control such a horse now, but taken as I was then, without 
even a knowledge of first principles, it seemed like a great 
success. 

The next horse experimented upon was a surly kicker, 
though not in appearance very vicious, yet a far more dif- 
ficult case to manage. The novelty and excitement of the 
whole thing so interested me as to strike a new key in my 
nature, and without reflection I dropped everything else, 
and determined to engage in the horse-taming business. 
My first step now was to inform myself upon the subject. 
Procuring every book available upon the training and man- 
agement of horses, I was surprised to find no authority 
whatever on the subject except Rarey. His method of 
treatment, though regarded as so much of a feat, seemed so 
simple to me that I did not feel under any apprehensions 
of being unable to do this, or even more. 



480 PEESONAL EXPEKIENCE. 

My real difficulties now commenced ; had I realized at 
the time what they would he, nothing could have induced 
me to engage in such business. First, I was very youthful 
in appearance, and undersized — points very greatly against 
me ; and secondly, I was without the address necessary to 
interest others in my efforts. I at first made but one small 
class in two weeks, and to add to my difficulties, my 
expenses had about exhausted my means. At my last 
place of engagement, notwithstanding I made a supreme 
effort to get a class, I failed. Still I was determined to 
succeed, and by the influence of this effort I made a success 
at a neighboring town. This became a turning point in my 
fortunes, for from that time, my success was almost 
continuous, the citizens frequently clubbing together to 
form a class for me, and I was often invited back several 
times to the same place. Some time after this, a chance 
circumstance occurred which had great influence in increas- 
ing my success. I was advertised, in a little town called 
Minaville, in Montgomery Co., N. Y. Upon arriving there, 
I not only found no interest at all in my efforts, but those 
present commenced ridiculing and blackguarding me until 
I was finally driven to defend myself. 

After this, to my surprise, those who had abused me 
most were the foremost in proposing to form a class for me. 
It being then too late, and having no suitable subjects 
upon which to illustrate treatment, I declined. They then 
made the request that I would come another day, promis- 
ing, if I would do so, not only to come out themselves, but 
to do all they could to bring out a general attendance of 
their neighbors. A week later I returned, and was 
successful in making a large class. 

Some time afterward, at a small town across the river 
from Amsterdam, when about ready to make up a class, 
three of the Minaville members then present requested a 



MEETING DIFFICULTIES. 481 

private interview with me. They told me they were 
dissatisfied, and demanded a return of their money. They 
said, if I would return it quietly, they would say nothing 
about it, and would help me all they could in that place. 
They could give no reason, only they were " not satisfied." 
I told them I could not do so unless I returned the money 
to the other members of the class also, but what I had to 
say about the matter I would say publicly. I accordingly 
called the people up around me, and told them what the 
fellows wanted, and what I had said to them, and closed 
up by announcing a time when I would go back to Mina- 
ville, and give to them and every member of that class 
their money back if they wanted it. Despite the strong 
opposition set up by these Minaville members, I succeeded 
in making a large class here, which was a decided success. 

It now became necessary to make decided effort at 
MinaviUe, as I knew these fellows would do all they could 
to prejudice the other members of the class. On this 
account, before the day appointed, I scoured the town to 
find good subjects, and succeeded in finding but one horse 
that had the habit of running away, and which had not 
been harnessed in over a year. By paying a liberal sum, 
and passing the owner into the class free, I procured this 
horse, and succeeded in making him entirely gentle. At 
the close of the lesson, I explained why I had returned, 
and told them that if they then felt they were not satisfied, 
one and all of them could step forward and get their 
money. They all expressed themselves fully satisfied, 
even those who had been opposing me, and passed a 
unanimous resolution of thanks, which was published in 
the county papers. That evening, the horse referred to 
was purchased by one of the scholars, and proved afterward 
a safe, reliable family horse. 

During the early years of my experience, my efforts 

31 



482 PEESOISTAL EXPEEIENCE. 

were more or less experimental, each new difficulty or 
phase of character trying me harder. When I failed, I 
never felt satisfied to let the matter so rest, and often at 
great inconvenience and expense would return and repeat 
the experiment privately until successful. I did it mainly 
for my own instruction. To show the persistence with 
which I sometimes followed this up, I will refer to a case 
for the sake of which I was compelled to lose over a week's 
time, and travel over a hundred miles : — 

At Vienna, N. Y., I failed on a horse brought in by 
Dr. Carpenter, a leading physician in the place, and lost a 
large class. Before leaving, I told the owner I was 
unwilling to let the matter rest so, that after meeting my 
other engagements, I would come back and take the horse 
in hand privately, and see what I could do with him. 
These engagements took me over sixty miles away. A 
week afterward, I drove back and spent half a day in 
handling the horse, barely succeeding in his control. The 
gentleman proposed that I again advertise the place, 
assuring me, if I would do so, I could get all the members 
of the former class, and a number of new ones. This I 
declined to do, when he offered to get them together him- 
self, providing I would teach them ; and through his efforts 
and influence a larger class than before was assembled. 
This time I made a decided success. 

Whenever I found very peculiar cases, I obtained them, 
if possible, to experiment upon. I will refer to one very 
marked case. When in Buffalo, N. Y., I heard of a trotting 
mare which was a desperate runaway of a peculiar charac- 
ter. She had been owned by a canal stableman in Erie 
Street, who, after she had run away with him several 
times, traded her off. Upon inquiry, I found the mare, 
and prevailed upon the owner to let me have her to exper- 
iment upon. He consented, on condition that I would pay 



EXPEEIMENTS. 483 

for her keeping while in the city, and pass him into the 
class free. Out of harness, she was entirely gentle ; but 
in harness, despite the pulling of two or three men, the 
patent reins, or the most severe bits that could be used 
upon her, she would resist all restraint and run away. 

This mare was a nervous tempered, ordinary looking 
bay, long-haired, deep-chested, rather heavy-boned, and 
not inclined to put on flesh. A very noticeable indication 
of the character was in the head, which was quite long and 
narrow. The eyes were rather small, and full below, the 
nose rounding, and ears long. I would call attention to 
one point; viz., that a well-bred horse, possessing great 
powers of endurance and action, and having the head full 
and straight below the eyes, especially if the eyes are 
small and set well back, will be likely, if vicious, to show 
great obstinacy of resistance. 

Upon trial under canvas, she submitted readily to 
treatment, driving around the ring gently after about 
twelve minutes' treatment ; but not revealing herself, she 
became the more suspicious and dangerous to me. On this 
account, while testing her outdoors, I took the most careful 
precaution to prevent her from getting away. She would 
drive gently for a few moments, then suddenly rush against 
the bit with all her might. In this way, for more than five 
hours, she continued the struggle with the most wonder- 
ful courage, when she yielded and drove perfectly gentle. 

Accompanied by a good assistant, I next tried her 
outside the city, when I found her as desperate in her 
resistance as though she had never been touched. She 
fought every point from nine o'clock in the morning until 
four in the afternoon, when she again yielded. This was 
one of the greatest exhibitions of pluck I ever saw in any 
horse, and I was determined to see whether or not such a 
horse could be broken. During the struggle, her eyes 



484 PEESONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

were like coals of fire, her ears thrown back, and the sweat 
at times pouring from her in streams. 

The Patent Bridle would have enabled the control of 
this case directly. The subjection of these extreme cases 
caused me a great deal of extra work and expense, but 
finally enabled me to determine with great accuracy the 
character of any case when presented for experiment. It 
was often a matter of surprise that, upon being told what 
a horse would do, I could with but rare exceptions, describe 
accurately the color, size, kind of head, and character gen- 
erally. Of course there are modifications of character 
which cannot be determined while the horse is in a jDassive 
condition, but which can be easily determined by testing. 

I early felt the need of some feature of interest that 
would attract the attention of the people. I at first 
purchased a pair of elks, which I tried to train and drive, 
but in consequence of their being too old, I could not make 
them safe. 

Some time after this, I heard of a man who as an 
advertisement drove a stallion without reins in the street. 
At Fonda, N. Y., I saw this performance, and introduced 
myself to the owner, Mr. A. H. Rockwell, who afterward 
became quite famous as a traveling horse-tamer. As a 
great many since then have claimed to be the originators of 
this feat, I will state the facts in relation to its first 
accomplishment : — 

The horse Morgan Tiger was undoubtedly the first 
driven in this way. He was trained by a lady, Mrs. Fred 
Bunnell, then a resident of Wellsboro, Tioga Co., Pa. 
Mrs. Bunnell exhibited remarkable skill in training and 
driving horses. She trained this stalhon, and, among 
many other novel tricks, taught him io go right and left, 
back, etc., to the motion of the whip. This horse was 
naturally very intelligent and stylish in appearance, but 



DJRlVIN(:f WITHOUT EEINS. 485 

gentle and lazy in disposition — -just the kind of horse to 
train easily and not incline to run away. She exhibited 
him several years at Chemung and other county fairs in 
that part of the State of New York, attracting much 
attention with him, yet always having reins on him.* 

He finally passed out of her hands, and was afterward 
hired by Mr. Rockwell to give exhibitions in halls. This 
not paying, and finding the horse would turn right and left 
by the whip, he took off the reins and so drove him in the 
street. To attract attention, he now advertised to drive a 
stallion in the street without reins, and engaged in teaching 
horse-taming on the R-arey system. 

Upon seeing this horse thus driven, I at once determined 
to train the first good horse I could find to driA^e without 
reins. Although I failed to learn in this instance how it 
Avas done, yet I made up my mind that it had been done 
once, and it could be done again, and /would do it. Soon 
after I went to Smithville, Jefferson Co., N. Y., where I 
found a remarkably fine, four-year old, black stallion, 
entirely unbroken, owned by 'Squire Cole. He was 
naturally vicious, but, liking him, I gave all the money I 
had for him. I now had a wild, unbroken colt, so vicious 
that it was , difiicult even to lead him, and certainly the 
possibility of training such" a horse to drive before a 
carriage safely under any excitement, and with nothing on 
his head, seemed not only a difiicult but a doubtful task. 

I worked three days trying to teach him to turn to the 
right or left with the whip, but utterly failed ; yet I did 
not in the remotest degree give up the idea of succeeding. 
At this point I was impressed as though by inspiration 

* This I learned when in that pai-t of the State afterward, from various parties, 
including Mr. Bunnell, husband of the lady, who became a member of my class at 
Wellsboro. It was also corroborated by Mr. Hurlburt, Mr. Rockwell's brother-in- 
law, who traveled with him. 



486 PEESONAL EXPERIENCE. 

how it could be done. My first step was to quiet down 
the excitement I had caused him by my previous abuse 
(for it was nothing else). I then gently mounted him, 
took a short driving whip, and commenced a moderate 
tapping against the shoulder, at the same time pulling his 
head around a little, and repeating until he got the idea, 
and would come around himself. When he moved the first 
time, it seemed a great achievement. I then repeated the 
treatment upon the opposite side, and in less than half an 
hour had him so he would turn right and left as touched. 
Soon he would turn around without being asked, and stop 
to get his reward of apple. If he did not promptly get it, 
he would repeat the turning, and then stop again, and ask 
for his reward as plainly as a beggar. 

From this j)oint, he made such rapid progress that in a 
week I could drive him freely without reins in the street, 
guiding and controlling him perfectly with the whip. In 
two weeks I was able to give exhibitions with him, the 
first being in Watertown, where the known circumstances 
were regarded with great interest. 

This was my horse Turco, which afterward became quite 
famous for his remarkable sagacity, and the ease and 
perfection with which he could be driven with the whip. 
He was in reality the only horse ever exhibited in this way 
that proved perfectly safe and reliable, and that never ran 
away. I could even put him on a run, and drive within an 
inch or two of any point desired, then turn so short around 
as to upset the wagon, yet at command he would stop 
instantly. I trained several horses afterward to drive 
single or double, but never had one that would equal him. 
He developed some traits of remarkable sagacity. He was 
naturally so vicious that I did not dare go near his head 
without keeping my eyes on his, or catching his halter to 
keep his head from me. 



MY FIEST PUBLICATION. 487 

To turn my back to him would certainly at times be 
dangerous ; but by careful management, I so subdued his 
nature that he became very gentle, though occasionally he 
exhibited great viciousness toward others. For example, 
if the groom showed the least timidity in approaching him, 
he would become so aggressive that he would lunge and 
kick at him with bull-dog ferocity. At such times, I had 
only to step in front of his stall, and say, " Turk, this man 
is all right ; he only wants to clean you," when he would 
stand a model of docility, even allowing the man to sit 
under his body to clean him. 

As he grew older, he learned to distinguish stablemen 
from others ; for any man who held a brush or currycomb 
in his hand, would be permitted to walk into his stall and 
around him with perfect safety, while others would get an 
emphatic warning to keep out. 

I next traveled through Northern and Central New 
York. At North Vernon I made the important discovery 
of the Second Method of Subjection, explained in the first 
chapter. Soon afterward I visited the city of Utica, where, 
after subduing the "Roberts horse" (Case 11, Subjection), 
and teaching several large classes, I was severely injured 
by a horse's stepping upon my foot, which disabled me about 
two months. 

It occurred to me while here to write up the details of 
my treatment, as there was almost daily an inquiry from 
my old scholars for it in printed form. I did so, and had 
it published at the Utica Herald Office in 1862. This was 
the first publication, called, " The New System for Educat- 
ing and Training Horses." 

A year later, when in Newark, N. Y., Mr. Rockwell, 
before referred to, visited me for the purpose of arranging 
to travel with me through the Eastern States. I drove 
from this point to Greenfield, Mass., meeting him by 



488 PEESONAL EXPBEIENCE. 

appointment at Harpersville. Upon arriving at Greenfield, 
I concluded not to engage in the enterprise, but sold out to 
him, for $300, the right to republish my book (which he 
was very anxious to do) . I include a copy of the contract, 
drawn by a counsel : — 

"It is hereby understood and agreed between D. Magner and 
A. H. Rockwell as follows ; to wit, in consideration of the mutual 
agreement herein made, it is agreed that said Rockwell shall make 
notes and additions to the book called 'The New System of 
Training Horses,' of which he has bought one-half of the copy- 
right of said Magner, said notes and additions to be such as he, 
the said Rockwell, shall think suited to add to the value of said 
book ; and that a copyright of said book shall be taken out in the 
names of said Magner and Rockwell jointly and equally. 

"iVow. 3, 1863." 

Soon after, I consented to have my name left off the 
title page, which he desired on publishing a new edition. 
In making a revision of this little work, Mr. Rockwell 
claimed to have trained my horse Turco, before referred to, 
and implied that he started me in the horse-taming business, 
when the facts were that I was over a year on the road 
before I ever met or heard of him, and I had trained and 
exhibited this horse nearly two years before he ever saw 
him. 

From Greenfield I went directly to Maine, where I 
met with the most flattering success. At Portland, almost 
the entire population came out to witness the feat of driv- 
ing without reins. I had several large classes there, 
reference to which will be found in the following editorial 
notices : — 

" Mr. Magner, the horse-tamer and trainer, has been in Port- 
land during the past week, and has created a great stir among 
■ our horsemen. So great was the interest excited, that Mr. Magner 
formed a school, which was largely attended by those interested 
in such matters, including many of our best citizens who have fine 
horses, and seems to have been altogether satisfactory. Such suc- 
cess iii so brief a period is quite unusual. His exhibitions have 



IN MAINE. 489 

been very interesting, and have satisfactorily demonstrated his 
ability to bring the most unmanageable horses entirely under his 
control. 

"An innocent colt, fresh from the country, was introduced, 
and in a few minutes acted the part of a well-trained horse ; then 
came a spirited mare, whose stubbornness was not so readily but 
no less surely overcome ; an old stager, which had for years defied 
every farrier in the county, but after five minutes' training stood 
quiet as a lamb while his feet were handled and hammered in 
true blacksmith style ; a splendid animal, whose principal fault 
seemed to be unusual fright at the sight of an umbrella, in a very 
short space of time stood unmoved as one of these articles was 
placed before him and moved about his body, and when at last it 
was held above and dropped upon his head, he appeared to regard 
it with far more of complacency than fear ; a puller on the bit 
was beaten at his own game, and yielded handsomely. 

" Whatever the tricks and eccentricities of which the animals 
brought forward were guilty, they found more than their match 
in the horse-tamer, who did not in a single instance let a horse 
pass out of his hands till he could truthfully say, ' I have you, 
sir.' He was asked to test his skill still further on a vicious mule 
which was brought in and turned loose in the ring. He was in- 
deed a villainous fellow, and not at all agreeable in his manners, 
refusing to be bridled or handled, and meeting every one who 
approached him with an undesirable display of his heels ; but in 
less than fifteen minutes his whole demeanor was changed, and he 
remained perfectly quiet while he was again and again haltered, 
mounted on all sides, and handled from head to foot, and finally 
was led out perfectly submissive. The change was wonderful, and 
called forth great applause. 

"These exhibitions are, as we learn, foreign to Mr. Magner's 
custom and general purpose, which is, not to exhibit feats in 
horsemanship, but to make the people practically acquainted with 
his system, and thereby create increased interest in raising and 
managing horses. He is soon to start out into the towns of this 
State, and we hope farmers and horsemen will give him all the 
attention which his theory and his success merit." — Portland 
(Me.) Transcript, 1864- 

" Mr. Magner, whose equestrian feats have excited the wonder 
of our citizens, has left the city in order to fulfill numerous en- 
gagements in the country. It is very fortunate for him that this 
is not an age when men are executed for witchcraft. Had he 
lived in Salem in 1692, and exhibited, as he has here, his power 
over refractory horses, he would have been hanged, as sure as fate, 
for a wizard. Indeed, we are not certain that he does not prac- 



490 PEESONAL EXPBEIENCE. 

tice some sort of witchery in his management of horses. No one 
can form an idea of his wonderful power over them, until he wit- 
nesses proof of it. To see a horse furious, stubborn, defiant, with 
a very devil in his eye, in a few moments, by some mysterious 
power, calmed down, rendered docile, patiently submissive, and 
allowing every liberty to be taken with him — in a word, the evil 
spirit which had possessed the animal, completely exorcised — you 
can hardly credit, although the marvelous transformation takes 
place under your naked eye. A knowledge of Mr. Magner's the- 
ory of subduing the horse must be invaluable to all owners of the 
animal." — Portland (Me.) Advertiser, 186 If.. 

This was in the winter of 1863-4. I next went to 
Augusta, the State capital. A very trifling incident here 
enabled me to attract considerable attention. A prominent 
member of the Legislature purchased, the day before, a 
fine horse, and desired me to look at him. Perceiving the 
horse to be unusually intelligent, it occurred to me that 
here was my chance to create a little surprise, and I deter- 
mined to improve it. 

Seeing a small switch lying upon the ground before me, 
I picked it up, took the horse by the halter, moved him 
around, and, while talking to the owner, quickly brought 
the switch over the horse's back to the opposite side of the 
head, and with a few slight but rapid strokes taught him 
to come around and follow without the halter. (Full 
details of this method are given in the chapter on Colt 
Training.) 

Throwing the hitching strap across his back and drop- 
ping the switch behind me, I walked around carelessly, the 
horse following. The owner wished to know if he would 
follow him. I answered, " Yes ; go to his head and walk 
around." Upon trial, he did so. Not noticing that I did 
anything with the horse, the man thought it wonderful. 
He told his friends that I merely looked at the horse, when 
he would follow me anywhere ! 

The story doubtless became magnified as it went. At 



EXCITING CUEIOSITY. 491 

any rate, on the next day the member.s of the Legislature, 
the officers of the Second Maine Cavalry, and those of the 
Fourth Infantry, attended my lecture in a body. The 
better to illustrate the inclination of many people to 
magnify trifling events when not understood, I will in- 
clude here an incident in point: — 

Once, in a town where I was entirely unknown, and 
the prospect for success very doubtful, I was invited to go 
with a man to his stable to look at a valuable mare. She 
stood quietly enough in the stall, but on approaching, my 
suspicions were excited by noticing the fear of the owner. 
Observing carefully, I saw that unless approached just 
right, she would be likely to kick, and determined a.t once 
to make the circumstance a key to my success. 

While standing a little behind the stall, to attract her 
attention I spoke to her sharply, at the same time glided 
up to her shoulder, rubbed and caressed her head a little, 
and then got out in the same manner. I told the man 
there would be no trouble in managing her, which was true. 
I then went directly back to the hotel, claiming to be in a 
hurry, but in reality for the purpose of allowing him an 
opportunity to ventilate his opinions among his neighbors, 
which he did with an effect quite beyond my expectations. 
After my exhibition, the moment I was ready to form a 
class, the citizens voluntarily came forward and gave me 
their names. 

After the experiments and instructions, I was with 
much interest asked, " How did you manage to get inside 
that mare's stall to-day without getting kicked?" Said 
they, " She is one of the worst mares in the country. No 
one has been inside her stall before for over three months, 
for she would kick any one going near her." The owner 
had told the people, as I expected he would, that as soon 
as I went near or looked at the mare, her whole character 



492 PERSONAL EXPEEIENCB. 

seemed to change at once ; that she looked as though she 
wanted to get near me ; that to his amazement, when I 
walked in by her side, she never offered to lift a foot or 
show the least viciousness toward me, and that I handled 
and stepped around her as unconcernedly as I would any 
horse. The whole point of my doing this lay in being able 
to discern her exact character and what she would bear. 
The leading gentlemen then in the city from different parts 
of the State, were excited to the highest pitch of curiosity 
by the reports, as stated, of my powers, and it was deter- 
mined to test me to the utmost degree. To insure this, a 
special committee was appointed to visit the officers of each 
company of the Fourth Maine Cavalry, which was at the 
time encamped near the city, to learn the number and char- 
acter of vicious horses among the twelve hundred belong- 
ing to the regiment, and to select five supposed to be the 
worst from the whole number reported, upon which to make 
the promised experiments. Although apparently very 
vicious, the subjects selected proA^ed very simple and easy 
cases to manage. I include editorial notices of the event : — 

" Mr. Magner, the author of this philosophy, has astonished 
the good people of Augusta and vicinity by the admirable and 
perfectly successful demonstration of" his system, in subduing and 
controlling some of the most vicious and ungovernable specimens 
of the horse fraternity that could be found among us. The 
manifest and acknowledged importance of this art, and the desire 
of the public to understand and witness the results of its applica- 
tion, induced a crowded attendance of all classes on Mr. Magner's 
practical illustrations of his theory. All who attended, came 
away fully convinced of, and perfectly satisfied with, the correct- 
ness of the principles and workings of this new system. 

"Even the members of the Senate and House of Representa- 
tives, and the members of the Executive Council, took a leisure 
hour, laid by the affairs of State, forgot their parliamentary 
squabbles, and found both amusement and instruction in witness- 
ing the skill and consummate tact with which Mr. Magner 
handled the hitherto incorrigible subjects brought forward to test 
his new doctrine. Crowds of our most intelligent citizens were 



SUCCESS m MAINE. 493 

also in attendance, and became decidedly and thoroughly satisfied 
that Mr. Magner's system is all that he claims for it, and when 
applied, will be effectual in bringing the wildest and most stubborn 
horse into complete subjection and docility. 

" A large class of pupils united in order to profit by Mr. Mag- 
ner's instruction, and learn the best modes of applying his theory 
to practice ; and as a matter of course, the hardest and most 
vicious horses that could be found in the neighborhood, were 
brought in for him to subdue, all of which were completely tamed, 
and brought into such a state of docility as to astonish those who 
saw it. So satisfactory and perfectly successful were his instruc- 
tions and experiments to every one who attended, and so efficient 
and useful did his principles and modes of procedure prove them- 
selves to be in training and subduing horses, that the ojUcers of 
the Second Maine Cavalry were influenced to invite him to give a 
course of instruction to those of the regiment who could be spared 
from duty to attend. In this, too, he was perfectly successful, as 
in all other instances. 

" The most dangerous of vicious horses are those frisky, nerv- 
ous, touchy kickers, whose heels are always ready to greet you 
whenever you approach or attempt to harness them. One of this 
class was brought forward, of so desperate a character that her 
owner cautioned Mr. Magner that he would expose himself to 
danger and probable injury if he was too familiar with her. In a 
very short time, he had her so effectually subdued and conquered 
that he could do anything he pleased with her — jump upon her 
back, slide off behind her heels, handle her feet, and place himself 
in any position he pleased around her, without her offering the 
least opposition, or showing the least disposition to bite or practice 
her old tricks. 

" We look upon this mode of horse- taming as an art wonderful 
for the sure and infallible results which follow its appliance." — 
Kennebec Journal, Augusta, Me., February, 186 4. 

"It is all quietly done ; no whipping nor thrashing ; no maul- 
ing, brawling, nor swearing, as has often heretofore been the cus- 
tom in such cases. Herein is one of the great and invaluable 
improvements which Mr. Magner introduces in the art of bringing 
the horse under complete control of man. We make these remarks 
for the purpose of calling the attention of our farmers and owners 
of horses in Maine to the new improvements of such vital impor- 
tance to their interests. We have taken great pains to give them 
a personal investigation. You will find Mr. Magner a modest, 
unassuming young man, and no humbug, and we cordially advise 
every one who can, to obtain the benefit of his lectures." — Maine 
Farmer, Feb. 2^, 1864. 



494 PBESONAL EXPEEIENCB. 

I now traveled through Vermont, New Jersey, Penn- 
sylvania, Western New York, and Ohio, training in the 
meantime several horses to drive without reins, both 
double and single. Even after I had trained Turco, I soon 
found it necessary to have additional features of interest to 
enlist the degree of attention desired. When in Maine in 
1864, the day before my exhibition, I adveHised to make 
any wild, unbroken colt so gentle in twenty minutes, that 
I would take him, without bridle or halter, into the street, 
and by the control of the whip alone, ride or handle him in 
any way I pleased. This I failed to do but once. When 
in Anson, a remarkably vicious colt was turned into a barn 
so large that I could not get to him before he became so 
excited that I knew I could not control him in the time 
claimed. Of course it would not do to admit this, and so 
I made the people crowding around and looking through 
the cracks, an excuse for not attempting anything further 
at this point. 

As I went into the street, I saw a young man riding a 
colt toward me. Upon inquiry, I found he was from the 
country, and I told him I would pass him into my class 
free, if he would let me handle his colt ten minutes to 
illustrate my treatment before the class, to which he 
consented. I made up the class on condition that I would 
perform the feat upon the colt before referred to in their 
presence ; but as it was an exceptionally bad one, I took 
this precaution of obtaining an easier one to handle and 
upon which to explain the principles. By this course I 
succeeded, though it was a close pull, as it was absolutely 
necessary to make the colt entirely gentle and control him 
as promised. When successful, I told the class the whole 
stratagem, as I made it an invariable rule to give them the 
facts, at which they laughed heartily. 

Afterward, when in Western New York, I advertised 



fePEClAL EXPEEIMENTS. 495 

that, each day before my regular exhibition, if the people 
would remain twenty minutes in the center of the town, I 
would take any kicking, runaway colt they could produce, 
lead him from them outside the town, and, within the time 
named, would subdue and drive him back to a carriage, 
without breeching. Or if I found a horse that had recently 
run awa}', and which could not be controlled, I made it in 
this way a startling card. For example : In Hornellsville, 
N. Y., I obtained a pony that had only the day before run 
away with a constable, a large, strong man, causing him 
serious injury, and breaking the wagon to pieces. In 
twenty minutes, I drove him in on a run, with breeching 
straps loose, and cross-piece striking against the quarters. 
Having almost reached the crowd, I purposely fell out, and 
when the horse had gone six or eight rods, I called 
" Whoa ! " sharply. He stopped instantly. This incident 
enabled me to make a large class there. 

In one instance only, I did not dare make the attempt. 
This was at a little place near Hochester. The colt se- 
lected was running in a field, and I accompanied the owner 
to get him. As soon as I saw the colt, I knew I could not 
control him in the time specified ; but I raced around with 
the owner to catch him, in the meantime thinking how I 
could manage the matter. Failing to catch the horse on 
account of his extreme wildness, I finally took the owner 
into my confidence, and told him that I did not want to 
catch the horse ; that I knew I could not subdue him so as 
to be able to handle him in the time stated, but that I 
would show him how he could break him, provided that he 
would help me out of the scrape, which he promised to do, 
and so reported that the colt could not be caught. Fortu- 
nately, at this point I saw a young man driving a spirited 
horse up the street. Ready to catch at any point, I ap- 
proached and asked, " If the breeching-straps were to break. 



496 PBESONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

and the cross-piece strike against the horse's quarters, 
would he not kick and run away?" He looked at me in 
surprise, saying, " I guess he would. I know I would not 
want to be in the wagon and have it strike him. He ran 
away once, and tore the carriage to pieces." I said to him, 
" I will pass you into my class free if you will let me have 
your horse ten minutes." Consenting, I told the people what 
the horse would do, which was known to be true. Know- 
ing from the disposition of the horse that there would be 
no difficulty in his subjection, I got in with the man, tell- 
ing him to drive quickly to the edge of the village. As 
soon as out of sight of the crowd, I jumped out, first mak- 
ing the owner promise he would not tell any one what I 
did, and made the horse submit to control in three or four 
minutes, then drove back rapidly with both breeching-straps 
loose. When I reached the middle of the crowd, I threw 
the reins out, and called sharply, " Whoa ! " when he in- 
stantly stopped, holding the wagon back with his heels. 
The quicker the feat could be done, and the greater the 
chances taken, the more surprising and startling it would 
prove. The main point of success was in being able to 
know how much could be dojie upon the horse in a given 
time, and if the risk was too great, to avoid it altogether. 
Sometimes it was extremely difficult to make these ex- 
periments, as I could not have sufficient opportunity or 
privacy. No matter how much I might reason with the 
people that upon the condition of their remaining in town 
would depend the success of the experiment, as soon as I 
started with the horse the whole crowd would break right 
and left to follow me. For example, when in Ashtabula, 
0., where I had a good subject off'ered, after trying twice 
and finding the crowd would not be kept back, I succeeded 
only by the following stratagem : An old scholar informing 
me that he had a good place about half a mile out of town. 



DIFFICULTIES. 497 

I directed the owner to take a back street and drive there 
quickly, and the few friends who wished to see the exper- 
iment to go separately, while I jumped into a wagon and 
drove rapidly in an opposite direction. AVhen out of view, 
I took a side street back to the place of rendezvous. We 
could see the people coming down the street on a run ; but 
I jumped out and made a rush for the horse, and although 
he was a kicking, runaway fellow that had not been har- 
nessed in over two years, I succeeded in five minutes in 
making him sufficiently manageable to be hitched up with- 
out kicking. I had barely time to hitch him up before the 
wagon, when the people came up, and I took the chances, 
without further treatment, of driving him rapidly back to 
town. Upon arriving at the crowd, which stood waiting, 
I stopped him so quickly as to almost throw him upon his 
haunches, dropped the reins, and jumped out of the wagon. 
Being behind time, I made it an excuse for unhitching the 
horse where he stood ; but the fact was, I did not dare to 
move him further, fearing he would kick, and thereby give 
me away. It is worthy of remark in this case, that upon 
trial next morning the owner found him perfectly gentle, 
hitched him to a carriage, took in his family, drove to town 
two miles distant, and used him afterward as a family driv- 
ing-horse. 

In the summer of 1864, I took into partnership Mr. E. 
C. Dudley, of Newton Center, Mass., who remained with 
me as business manager for four years, and who contribu- 
ted greatly to my success. 

As driving without reins soon became so common that 
it lost its novelty as a drawing card, I trained ponies to 
do sensational tricks. For these exhibitions I built suit- 
able places covered with canvas, in cities and large country 
towns, frequently remaining several weeks in one place, 
and having remarkable success. In Buffalo, Toledo, Cleve- 

33 



498 PERSONAL EXPEEIENCB. 

land, and other large cities, the people came in crowds for 
weeks, and in some cases from distances of over one hun- 
dred miles, to witness the performance of the ponies, and 
to attend my lectures. 

To illustrate the prejudice to which I was often ex- 
posed, I will refer to an incident which occurred at Cleve- 
land, 0. The city had at that time about 90,000 inhab- 
itants, and its business community was among the most en- 
terprising of the Northwest. They exhibited an unusual 
interest in fine horses, and their trotting-races were the 
most popular and liberally conducted of any in the coun- 
try. I anticipated an unusual interest in my efforts there, 
and I incurred large expense in advertising the city and 
surrounding country, and in building a place for my con- 
venience in giving exhibitions and teaching classes. 

At the time appointed, there was a large attendance of 
leading citizens to witness the performance of the ponies ; 
but to my surprise I could not get a single name for a class. 
Such a result was unprecedented in my experience. To 
have people go away without exhibiting the least interest 
in my efforts, was not only mortifying in the extreme, but 
discouraging. By the advice of the landlord, Mr. Stone, 
of the Commercial House, I sent twelve complimentary 
tickets to as many leading horsemen. On the following 
day there was again a large gathering ; but as before, I 
could not get a single name — not one of those who were 
complimented coming forward, nor in any way manifesting 
the least interest in my efforts. Upon inquiry I found 
that eight of those gentlemen were present. I was now 
thoroughly provoked by such indifference. Something 
must be done, and that speedily, to make a stir, or I could 
have no hope of success. The thought of failure I could 
not entertain for a moment. It was necessary, first, that I 
should bring the people back again, and this I knew I 



6^P0SITI0N. M 

could not do by the ordinary pony performance ; so to 
meet the emergency, I arranged to have a bet made of 
$100, that a certain negro boy there could ride " Tommy " 
without being thrown. This was announced in the morning 
papers, and as I expected, there was a crowd gathered to 
witness the trial. Judges and referee were appointed, and 
I put up the money. The condition was that he should 
ride him twice around the ring, or sit upon his back one 
rainute, with the privilege of making three trials. The 
young man made a heroic effort to win, but was at each 
time ingloriously thrown. 

The time had now come for a supreme effort, so 
1 mounted a box I had arranged for the purpose, and made 
it. I closed up my remarks by offering $500 to any man 
who would produce a horse I could not subdue and drive 
gently within forty minutes. Up to this point I had not 
received a single name, nor did it seem possible to obtain 
horses to experiment upon. Finally, a gentleman named 
Edwards, a wholesale grocer on Water St., came forward, 
saying, " We think we know something about this matter. 
Rarey, Rockwell, and others have been here, and we think 
we know all and more than you can give us. But we have 
a horse here, which, if you can drive, as you say you can, 
you will convince us you can beat any man in the coun- 
try." 1 answered, " Get the horse, and I will settle the 
matter very quickly." 

The horse was sent for, and led in by a groom, and fol- 
lowed by the owner, a prominent citizen named Malone. 
At the last moment, he refused to let me have the horse 
to experiment upon ; but rather than lose the opportunity, 
1 bought him, paying very much more than he was really 
worth. I then said to the people, " I now have a subject, 
a horse that you all know cannot be driven in harness by 
any man in your city or State. If I do not drive him gen- 



500 PERSONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

tie without breeching within forty minutes, every man 
joining my class can have his money back. I wish it 
distinctly understood that I do not ask for any favors, and 
will not grant any. I have tried to be reasonable, even 
generous, to the horsemen of this city, without having the 
least confidence or interest shown in my efforts by any one. 
I now wish it* distinctly understood that I will not now 
grant any favors to any one, and will not ask for any. I 
have no friends here, and do not want any. I will show 
you now that I am able to win success without the help of 
any one. Every man remaining inside, except the mem- 
bers of the press, must represent $5. If I fail to do just 
what I promise, you can all have your money back before 
you leave. Not only this, but to-morrow at twelve o'clock 
precisely I will drive him on the square, without bridle 
or breeching, not only perfectly gentle in harness, but a 
trained horse to drive with a whip. If I do not do it, as 

I before stated, every man can have his money back." 
Thirty-five remained ; and I drove the horse entirely gentle 
within thirty minutes. 

It now became a question of great interest to know 
.whether he could be driven on the square as promised. At 

II o'clock, I was notified that it was considered too 
dangerous to permit the experiment to be made ; and in 
order to make the trial, I was compelled to give bonds of 
$1,000 as a guarantee that no harm should follow. At 
twelve precisely the horse was driven as advertised, in the 
presence of upwards of 30,000 people. This was followed 
by the largest and most enthusiastic class I ever made up 
to that time, numbering nearly 500 members. Every man 
now seemed to take a jDorsonal interest in my success. 

The better to explain the general interest these exper- 
iments excited, I include paragraphs from a few of the 
press notices : — 



SUCCESS IN CLBYELAKD. 501 

" But the great sensation of the evening was yet to come ; for 
all were anxious, as many present knew the vicious nature of the 
beast to be subdued — in fact, there were one or two present who 
had had good cause to ever remember the great runaway and 
kicker known as the 'Malone Horse.' He is a gray gelding, 
perhaps sixteen hands high, of great beauty and strength, and a 
will and determination rai-ely found in the purely American 
breed of horses. The horse was brought into the enclosure, and 
caused general comment by his magnificent style and grace of 
movement. His owner was present, and after looking at the 
animal a few minutes, and dreading to see him pass into other 
hands to manage, hesitated at the last moment to give his consent 
to the application of the system. 

"Mr. Magner, determined to have a subject, asked the price 
of the horse, which was announced to be $500. 'I'll take him,' 
said Mr. M., and at once handed over the amount. This move- 
ment on the part of Mr. Magner was unexpected, as most ' horse- 
men ' who have visited us generally preferred to ' work up ' other 
people's horses, rather than their own. 

"At this stage of the proceedings the excitement was intense, 
and many speculations were indulged in as to who would prove 
the victor, the man or the horse. In less than twenty minutes 
from the time Mr. Magner laid his hands upon his subject, the 
horse was as gentle as a lamb, and as easily controlled as the most 
reliable family horse. Among other efforts to prove that the gray 
gelding was completely broken, Mr. M., without reins in hand, 
mounted the wagon, and, catching the animal by the tail, drove 
him around the ring at a fearful pace, drawing the wagon upon 
the heels of the horse in such a way as to strike them with a force 
that could be heard at the furthest end of the room." — Cleveland 
Leader. 

" Yesterday morning the famous ' Malone Horse ' was hitched 
to an open wagon, with no hold-back straps, and driven up and 
down the street, at times at a 2 : 40 pace, and when suddenly 
brought up with the lines, would stop the whole weight of the 
vehicle with his heels — but no kicking now." — Cleveland Herald. 

"A Serious Accident, 

" While Mr. Magner was driving along the street following 
after the Arlington band wagon, people would call out to him, 'I 
say, mister, yer hold-back straps are gone ! Yer' 11 have a runa- 
way if yer don't look out ; ' and while crossing the railroad track 
on Ontario street, to avoid the jam of teams, etc., the rear wheels 
of his buggy were struck by a passing street car, the axletree so 



502 



PEESONAL EXPEPtlENCE. 



bent that one of the wheels would not revolve, and the driver, 
buggy, and all precipitated forward on the horse, which, three 
days ago, one-half dozen men could not have held under such cir- 
cumstances, but with no bad results further than stated. The 
horse did not seem alarmed, and bravely stood while the wreck 
was cleared away from the track, without so much as an offer to 
kick, fully proving the thoroughness of Magner's system. 

" The people that thronged the street were attracted by that 
natural morbidity of the human mind which expects to be gratified 
by seeing some appalling disaster ; but in this case they were most 
grievously disappointed, for instead of seeing the gray gelding 
' mash things,' as was his wont, they only saw a splendid, docile 
animal driven by a gentleman who neither appeared alarmed, or 
expectant of any serious results from driving so gentle and speedy 
a buggy horse. 

" At the close of the last lecture of his course in Cleveland, the 
the following resolution was moved by Hon. Silas Merchant 
(President of City Council), which was carried by acclamation of 
the entire class, comprising one thousand leading citizens : — 

" ' Resolved, That we, as members of Prof. Magner's class in 
this city, deem it but a just recognition of his skill and success in 
teaching us his system of educating horses, which is above all 
praise, hereby indorse him and his system to our friends and the 
public' 
Gen. J. W. Fitch, Kennard 

House. 
R. P. Waterbury, Akron Stove 

Co. 
Geo. E. Armstrong, of Alcott 

& Horton, Wholesale Dry 

Goods, 149 Water street. 
Silas Merchant, Iron Founder, 

River street. 
L. B. French, of French & 

Keith, Wholesale Dry 

Goods, Water street. 
S. S. Coe, Sec. Cleveland Ins. 

Co., corner Water and Su- 
perior streets. 
W. P. Horton, of Alcott and 

Horton, Wholesale Dry 

Goods, Water street. 
Geo. H. Burritt, Collector of 

Customs, Custom House. 
E. Thompson, Wholesale Grocer, 

Bank street. 



W. D. CusHiNG, Agt. Erie R 
R., 131 Superior street. 

Wm. Edwards, Wholesale Gro- 
cer, Water street. 

Amos Townsend, Wholesale 
Grocer, and Pres. City 
Council, City Hall. 

R. Collins, Prop. Weddell 
House. 

Gen. D. T. Casement, Panes- 
ville. 

Geo. Westlake, Oil Refiner. 

D. Stone, Esq., ScovUle avenue. 
W. Bell, Wholesale Lumber 
Merchant. 

W. Coe, Prop. Cleveland 
Mills, 268 Scoville avenue. 
P. Weddell, Esq., Banker, 
Bank street. 

And 1,000 others." — Cleveland 
Leader, 



F 



C. 



H 



m MICHIGAN. 503 

At Toledo, O. 

" Monday, the last lesson of Prof. Magner to his class in Toledo 
was given. His success here has been unprecedented, and his 
teachings unparalleled in their line. What the members of the 
class have learned could not be bought of them for ten times the 
sum paid by them for the instruction. He goes to Adrian, Mich., 
from here ; and we bespeak for him there a hearty welcome and 
the usual success attending his efforts. The Professor is a man of 
his word, professing no more than he performs, and doing good 
wherever he goes. In his teachings, he not only instructs his 
scholars, but benefits the horses, by introducing a more humane 
and gentle course of treatment, and therefore merits the name of 
benefactor to the brute race, or a niche beside the renowned Bergh. 
We congratulate the Adrianites on their acquisition," — Toledo 
Commercial. 

Buffalo Class, 

The Buffalo, N. Y., class, comprising over 500 members, 
passed the following resolution unanimously : — 

"Resolved, That we commend Prof. Magner to our friends as 
a reformer of more than ordinary usefulness ; that his theory of 
governing and educating horses is the most practical, humane, 
and valuable we have ever witnessed ; that it can be learned and 
practiced by any one of ordinary intelligence ; and that we desire 
to be represented through the following well-known prominent 
citizens, who can be referred to : Geo. W. Tifft, Esq., Judge Mas- 
ton, Mayor Dickey, C, J. Hamlin, Esq., F. W. Tracy, Esq,, Rich- 
ard BuUymore, Esq,, C. L. Whiting, Esq." 

" As a practitioner and teacher of the art of taming horses, Mr. 
Magner is without a rival. No one can understand the seemingly 
magical power which this man seems to possess over the horse 
kingdom, until he witnesses one of his exhibitions. While in 
Toledo, he had in his classes many of our best citizens, and all 
not only feel fully satisfied, but indorse him, as will be seen, in 
the strongest manner. 

"Happening into the tent one day, we saw the Professor 
training a noble, but desperately stubborn horse, owned by Mr. 
R. Mott. After operating with the animal but a brief time, his 
very nature seemed changed, and on being driven by his master, 
he was kind and obedient as the best of horses. 

" The readers of the Blade can rely upon the fact that the 
Professor is an upright, honorable gentleman, possessing all the 
wonderful skill he claims."— To^ec^o Blade, 



504 



PEESONAL EXPEEIENOE. 



Adrian (Mich.) Class. 

" During the present week, Prof. Magner, the celebrated 
horse-tamer and educator, has conducted his classes in this city. 
He has created a genuine furore among all interested in horses 
in this city ; and his reputation has extended to a large circuit of 
country, and persons have attended his classes from over twenty 
miles distant. He has succeeded in subduing and rendering per- 
fectly tractable some horses which have resisted all previous efforts 
of horse-breakers and others to reduce them to submission ; and 
his wonderful power over horses excites the most astonishment 
from those the best posted in equine care and treatment, and the 
exhibitions of the trained stud of horses, which he owns and 
carries with him, are superior in interest to the choicest feature of 
the best circus traveling. In every place he has been, Mr. Magner 
has received the most emphatic and cordial indorsements. 

" The following well-known citizens desire to state to their 
friends that they have attended several of Mr, Magner's lectures, 
and would say without fear of contradiction, that he is the Boss 
Horse-tamer of the world, and that he can do more than he 
advertises : — 



Wm. Snyder, V. S. 

Howard Sickles, Livery and 

Horse Dealer. 
A, H. Russell, Horse Dealer. 
Col. Wood, Owner of Wood's 

Museum, Chicago. 
Clement E, Weaver, Esq. 
Chas. Redfield, U. S. P. O. 

Inspector. 
Benj. Turner, Livery Keeper. 
Edwin P. Swords. 
John Price, Horse-trainer. 
H. Knowles. 

G. LiVESAY. 

J. K. Johnson. 
A. Maxwell. 
George McNeil. 

— Adrian Weekly Times. 



M. E. Abbott. 
J. Torney. 
N. S. Wheeler. 
J. S. McNair. 
A. H. Bassett. 

M. J. HOAG. 

A. R. Baker. 

M. Brazee. 

Ralph Abbott. 

Dr. Roberts. 

F. Meddick, 

H. Daxtill, Livery. 

J. H. Emery. 

J. S. Smalley. 

W. R. Tayer, Sheriff! 

John Webster, Sec. Gas Co. 

And 400 others." 



Jackson (Mich.) Class. 

" Prof, Magner gave his last exhibition and lecture in this city 
on Saturday afternoon last, and, as usual, a large number were in 
attendance. There were at least two hundred members of his 



NOTICES OF, THE PEESS. 



505 



class present to listen to the closing lecture, and witness some of 
his wonderful feats of subduing and managing horses. At the 
close of the lecture, one of the members of the class offered the 
following resolution, which was received with applause, and 
adopted without a dissenting voice : — 

'"Resolved, That we, the members of Mr. Magner's class, 
hereby express to him our high appreciation of his instructions in 
his system for the reform and elevation of horses, which, in our 
estimation, is incomparably superior to any system ever brought 
before the public. By this system, the management of the horse 
is reduced to a definite and exact science, and we desire most 
heartily to commend Mr. Magner to the confidence of the public, 
to express to him personally our thanks for his patience, his thor- 
oughness, and his gentlemanly bearing, while engaged in his pro- 
fession in this city.' 



J. H. NoYES, Mayor. 
W. L. Seaton, Postmaster and 
Member of the City Council. 

D. B. HiBBARD. 

S. S. Vaughn, President Horse 
Breeders' Association. 

D. J. Robinson & A. V. Pant- 
LIND, Props. Hibbard House. 

Dr. G. Chittock. 

M. Knapp, Livery Keeper. 

J. A. HiGGiNS, City Express. 

B. G. Johnson, Member City 
Council. 



J. Brown, Member City Council. 

RoBT. Knowles, County Clerk. 

A. Vandercook, Member Coun- 
cil. 

Chas. Meseroll, City Marshal. 

Jesse Hurd, Owner of Track. 

John Goodyear, Livery and 
Sale Stable. 

C. C. Pond, Broker and Stock 
Dealer. 

And 300 others." — Jackson Pat- 
riot. 



When the panic of 73 set in, I found it impossible to 
do business in large centers, and I was compelled to make 
a complete change by traveling in the country and remain- 
ing but one day in a place. As a feature of interest at this 
time, I advertised driving into town, the day before my 
lecture, a stallion without reins, followed by another 
(Blind Billy) loose in the street; and the next morning, 
before forming a class, I gave a regular exhibition with the 
ponies. It was frequently surprising to note the interest 
these performances excited. The country people came in 
crowds. 

After traveling over the Eastern States before referred 



506 PEESONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

to, I went to Ohio, where I became acquainted with R. P. 
Hamilton, a Yery unique character, who was engaged in the 
horse-taming business. He was a natural showman, and 
combined with his performances, tricks of legerdemain. 
Though very successful at the time, his modes of treatment 
were extremely limited. 

Yet to this man belongs the undoubted honor of 
originating the idea of throwing, on the principle of the 
First Method. But his way of doing it was so crude and 
imperfect that there was almost constant danger of seriously 
injuring or killing the horse. The leg was tied up as done 
by R-arey, and a surcingle put on in the same manner, with 
the addition of back band and crupper attached. The end 
of the cord was tied around the neck, as for first form of 
War Bridle, thence through the mouth, and back through 
the ring on the surcingle. 

When the cord was pulled upon, it would necessarily 
rake so severely across the mouth that, if it was at all 
sensitive, the horse was liable to rear up and throw himself 
over backward; while if stifP-necked and dull-mouthed, 
there would not be sufficient power to pull the head to one 
side. If pulled upon straight back, on a line with the 
body, as he was in the habit of doing, the difficulty and 
danger would be still greater. 

These objections I overcome by putting on a halter 
with the strap back of the jaw, drawn rather tight, over 
which I pass a cord, and to increase the purchase, tie the 
end around the surcingle above the ring. This improve- 
ment not only more than doubles the purchase power upon 
the head, but entirely overcomes the objection of hurting 
the mouth. In this way the horse was brought off his feet 
and upon his side as desired, thereby proving it to be not 
only a simple and safe but very powerful means of subjec- 
tion. See illustrations on pages 371-376, 



PUBLICATIONS EEVISED. 507 

Very soon after publishing the first edition of my little 
book for my classes, I found it not only too small, but im- 
perfect ; so in 1865 I made a revision of it, greatly improv- 
ing and enlarging it. But with a constantly increasing 
experience and success, I very soon felt the necessity for 
still another revision, which I made in 1867. Revisions 
w^ere again made in 1869, '71, and '75 ; thus enlarging the 
book for my classes from a small pamphlet of 64 pages, as 
first published, to a work of 276 pages, quite largely illus- 
trated, as it now stands. There have been fully 100,000 
copies of these various editions issued, and given to my 
classes. 

During* my early experience, my advice was asked 
almost daily in regard to the cure of some form of disease 
of horses. Though continually admitting that I knew 
nothing about the diseases of horses, I would be pressed 
to give such advice as I could. Consequently I read such 
books on the subject as were available, but practically 
could make but little or nothing out of them, as the treat- 
ment would be either contradictory or too indefinite for 
reliability. What would perhaps be highly recommended 
by one authority, would not infrequently be condemned 
by another. 

I came in contact with a great many horse-doctors 
who claimed to have remedies of great value for the cure 
of spavins, ring-bone, etc., and at various times I was 
induced to pay considerable money for recipes, etc., that 
proved not only worthless, but really dangerous. There 
are doubtless many who, though not regular practitioners, 
are geniuses in their way, and worthy of entire confidence ; 
but my experience has been that men who claim to have 
wonderful secret cures, and who aim to sell a little 
medicine for a large price, are unreliable, and should be 
avoided. 



508 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 

These c'rcumstances led me to employ one of the best 
veterinary surgeons I could find to give me a private course 
of lectures, which was to embody his best treatment for 
the most common forms of disease. The best remedies 
used in this gentleman's practice, as well as those 
obtained from many other sources, I afterward published 
in the Medical Department of the " New System," and 
they will also be found embodied in the same department 
of this work. 

My health iinally becoming seriously impaired, I was 
compelled to stop business for a while, or so arrange as to 
lessen the strain to which I had been so long subjected. 
Having too many trained horses, I sold six stallions, com- 
prising four horses and two trick ponies, all trained to 
drive without reins. Three of these (one being the " Fred 
Arnd Horse," referred to in the chapter on Stallions) were 
sold in Bath, N. Y., and vicinity. One of the matched 
pair and a pony were sold to 0. S. Pratt, of Batavia, N. Y., 
and the other to a man named Graves, of Lockport, N. Y. 
This last pony was a superior performer, and I sold him 
with the special stipulation that when he desired to part 
with him, I should have the first chance to buy ; yet not- 
withstanding this stipulation, he sold the pony to Pratt. I 
still had two of my best horses; and, having made 
arrangements with a man who had traveled in the South, 
to assist me there, I shipped directly to Memphis, Tenn., 
and traveled in the South nearly two seasons. 

I have at various times been greatly annoyed, and my 
business much injured, by parties engaging in the business 
and copying my bills, claiming to be authors of a New 
System, etc. One of the boldest of these, and the only 
one I will refer to, was the man Pratt, who is now deceased. 
The sale of the horses to him was made on the condition 
that I should teach him how to manage them, and also in- 



IK NEW YOEK. 509 

struct him. in the business sufficiently to enable him to 
travel, to which I devoted about a week's time. Re- 
turning North with improved health, I reorganized my 
business so as to strike only large centers, and was so 
engaged in Michigan in the winter of '72, when business 
requirements demanded my going to New York, Some- 
what to my surprise, I found Mr. Pratt located in the city, 
advertising himself as the " Great Horse-tamer of the 
World, the Author of a New System," etc., and resorting 
to the boldest methods of charlatanism, such as buying ar- 
ticles and arranging to have them presented to him as if 
voluntary gifts from his classes, etc. This role he played 
quite successfully in Philadelphia and other cities. 

Calling upon him at a time when there were a number 
of other gentlemen present, he addressed me as though I 
were but a casual acquaintance, saying, " Magner, I have 
the best trained horses in the world, and the best system 
in the world." Such presumption on his part aroused my 
indignation, and I determined to show him up. 

Before I started him in the business, he did not pretend 
to know anything more about horses than he was able to 
learn from ordinary observation, and experience of driving 
one to a grocery wagon. I simply said to him, " I think 
you have carried this matter too far, and now I shall make 
it my business to show what you can do." 

Being entirely unknown there, I found myself con- 
fronted with great difficulties. In the first place. New 
York is the great metropolis of the country, and its horse- 
men undoubtedly are the most skillful and critical in the 
world, well read, extremely practical, with the broadest 
and most varied experience. In horse-taming, they had 
seen Barey, Fancher, and Hamilton. They had now had in 
the city, for over three months, Pratt in one part and Mr. 
Bockwell in another, both making the most extravagant 



510 PEESOJSTAL EXPEEIENCE. 

pretensions. Hamilton won very general attention, but 
his success was destroyed by killing two valuable horses, 
and seriously injuring others. Pratt's extravagant preten- 
sions attracted some notice, but upon trial he revealed him- 
self to be an ignorant pretender, to whose management 
they soon learned not to trust a good horse. Rockwell 
was a man of much experience, a good horseman, and was 
well calculated to make friends and win success ; but his 
instructions did not add much to their knowledge. The 
result was, the people felt they had nothing more to learn 
from professed horse-tamers, and had so far lost confidence 
in them that they would not trust a good horse to them for 
treatment. 

Under such circumstances, it could not be expected that 
a new applicant for favor would receive much attention ; 
but I was bound to make the effort at all hazards. After 
careful deliberation I determined to enlist the attention of 
some leading horseman, whose standing for skill and verac- 
ity would be above question. Mr. Robert Bonner was the 
gentleman. With considerable difficulty, and without an- 
nouncing my name, I was finally able to obtain admission 
to his presence, when, without any preliminaries, I said to 
him, " Sir, I will forfeit flOOO (which amount I held in my 
hand), which you can retain, or devote to any benevolent 
purpose you please, if I cannot take any horse that any 
horseman or horse-tamer in the city or outside of it, living or 
dead, has failed upon, and make him perfectly gentle in forty 
minutes, without throwing or whipping, and within the 
limits of even a box stall." Looking at me in surprise, he 
asked, "How can you do it?" I replied, "It will take 
about four minutes to explain." He said, " I will give you 
five." But becoming interested, the interview was contin- 
ued nearly an hour, when he expressed himself as very de- 
sirous of seeing me make the experiment. 



IN NEW YORK. 611 

Upon inquiry, I learned of a horse that was brought to 
Pratt with orders to break or kill him, as he was good for 
nothing unless he could be broken. The horse resisted, 
and not wishing to acknowledge his defeat he resorted to 
the most persistent as well as severe treatment in order to 
exhaust and break him down. But after a week's effort 
he utterly failed, and the owner was told that the horse 
had no brains, and could not be broken. I could obtain 
no particulars in relation to the appearance or disposition 
of the horse ; but knowing what Pratt would do, and the 
kind of horse he would be likely to fail upon, I was confi- 
dent, if able to obtain the horse, of experiencing no diffi- 
culty in his subjection. I accordingly found the owner, 
Mr. Wilkins, a well-known dealer in fine horses. Upon 
introducing myself and stating my business, the gentleman 
became greatly excited, and said he didn't want anything 
more to do with horse-tamers, etc. I simply asked him 
how much his horse was worth. His answer was, " He is 
not worth anything now." I said to him, " I want your 
horse at Mr. Bonner's stable to-morrow morning at 10 
o'clock to experiment upon, on the following .conditions : 
First, I will deposit $1000 in Mr. Bonner's hands, which 
you are at liberty to take if your horse is injured ; second, 
I will give you an additional hundred should I fail to make 
him gentle in forty minutes. Can I have him on these 
conditions?" He answered, "Yes; I will have him there 
on time." Upon trial the experiment proved a success, the 
horse submitting in about thirty minutes. Particulars of 
this incident will be found in Case No. 6, Subjection. 

I now felt certain of being able to enlist the attention 
of the horsemen of the city, and built a place suitable for 
giving test exhibitions, and invited by card the attendance 
of leading horsemen. When assembled, I requested them 
to appoint a committee of such gentlemen and expert horse- 



512 PEESONAL EXPERIENCE. 

men, not exceeding ten in number, as would be above 
suspicion of not giving a fair and impartial report on the 
merits of my claims, before whom I would make such ex- 
periments as would be necessary to explain and illustrate 
to them my system of treatment. By invitation, the Cooper 
Institute Farmers' Club also appointed a special committee 
of three to report to the Club the result of the experiment. 
The result of the experiments will be shown by the sub- 
joined editorials and reports : — 

From N. Y. Sunday Democrat. 

A NEW ERA IN THE EDUCATION- OF HOESES. 

A WONDERFUL EXHIBITION. 

On Friday evening Mr. D. Magner gave an exhibition, to 
which none but invited guests were admitted. Among the horse- 
fanciers present wei-e Robert Bonner, Dan Mace, Ed. Wilkins, J. 
D, Walton, George Lewis, Jacob Creveling, Amos Little, Dave 
Bonner, W. S. Ridabock, R. J. Anderson, Arthur Gillender, Wal- 
ter Briggs, W. Jackson, Jo. Bennet, N. H. Leadbetter, Jacob 
Baulch, James MofFatt, William Rutzer, Dr. Ogle, Dr. Brighton, 
of Boston, Dr. Lee, Henry Casey, J. C. Durant, Isaac Sonburg, 
Dr. O'Shea, Hamilton Busbey, Wilham Watson, of Westchester, 
with his two sons, William Apgar, C. Moran, jr.. Dr. Beadle, 
James Morris, E. H. Freeman, and M. Bain. 

After exhibiting some extraordiiic'iry tricks by his trained 
horses, Mr. Magner requested them to choose from those present a 
committee to report on his system. The committee selected con- 
sisted of Messrs. Robert Bonner, Cliairinan, Charles Swift, jr., 
Secretary, Dan Mace, Amos Little, Arthur Gillender, Geo. Lewis, 
J. D. Walton, James Moffatt, W. W. Briggs, N. H. Leadbetter, 
and others. 

The committee having taken their seats, Mr. Magner, in a 
brief address, explained the main points of his treatment. . . 
In the course of his remarks he very justly stated that more men 
than horses require training. A notoriously vicious horse was 
then brought into the ring, and in less than thirty minutes he was 
trotting in harness as gentle as though he had always been a fam- 
ily horse, and this, too, without throwing or harsh treatment. 
Mr. Bonner, turning to the committee, said, Rarey taugJd us our 
ABC, hut Magner teaches us hoiv to put the letters together. 
At the close of the exhibition the followino' 



IN NEW YOEK. 513 

AUTOGEAPH LeTTEE FEOM Me. BoNNEE 
was handed to a representative of this paper: — 

Office of the Ledger, ) 

New York, Jan. 25, 1872. f 

Mr. D. Magner : 

Deae Sie, — From the conversations I have had with yoii, and 
from the satisfactory manner in which you handled Mr. Wilkins' 
horse to-day in my stable, I have no hesitation in saying that I 
consider you THE MOST scientific and successful educatoe, oe 
TAMEE, OF VICIOUS HOESES I HAVE EVEE MET. Mr. Wilkins' horse 
was a most vicious brute; he would kick with more spite and de- 
termination than any horse I ever saw, and at the same time he 
would strike with his forward feet; indeed, Mr. Wilkins himself 
told me that he was, to use his exact expression, " the worst horse 
in New York." In less than an hour you succeeded in handling 
him as freely, and with as much apparent safety, as you would 
any ordinary family horse. 

I have myself handled Princess, the famous old competitor of 
Flora Temple, on your new system ; and, although she was at one 
time so vicious as to be ahnost unmanageable, my youngest boy, 
a lad of fifteen, has, during the past week, been driving her daily 
in the Central Pai-k. All things considered, your treatraent is, 
in my opinion, entirely new and reliable, as ivell as humane 
and practical. Yours truly, 

ROBEET BONNEE. 

In a conversation subsequent to the exhibition, Mr. Bonner 
stated that if he could have made his letter any stronger, he would 
have done so. 

COMMITTEE REPORT. 

April 9, 1873. 

We, the committee appointed by the citizens and prominent 
horsemen of New York to investigate and report upon the merits 
of Mr. Magner's system of training and educating wild and vi- 
cious horses, respectfully report that we have exerted every effort 
in our power to obtain horses of such a bad character as would 
test the practicability of his treatment, and secured a thorough- 
bred mare, owned by L. C. Popham, of No. 945 Broadway. This 
mare was fourteen years old, and had resisted all efforts to con- 
trol her in single harness; would kick herself free from shafts, 
and run away at all hazards. Also, a thorough-bred gelding, six- 
teen years old, owned by H. L. Herbert of Red Bank, N. J. He 
would balk while riding, kickiug and running away while in 
harness, and was so vicious that he could not be driven or con- 
trolled in harness; was purchased by Mr. Herbert for $2,500; 

33 



514 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 

proved so worthless that he sold him for $150, and afterwards re- 
purchased him for $25. Also, a fine Star mare, owned by R. L. 
Pell, Esq., of Fifth Avenue and Twenty-sixth street; would kick 
herself free in single harness, and would run away. This mare 
could not be driven single. These, with others, were handled in 
our presence, including a large number of promiuent citizens and 
members of the press, all of whom were invited to witness the ex- 
periments proposed to be made before this committee. 

In eighteen minutes (without throwing or any cruelty) Mr. 
Magner made the Herbert horse so docile that he could be driven 
with the greatest freedom without breeching, demonstrating the 
most wonderful change in his character. The owner publicly 
stated the fact of his former vicious reputation and unmanageable 
habits. The Popham mare was driven with equal success in 
twenty-seven minutes, submitting to all kinds of handling, even 
from strangers. The Pell mare was next handled, and driven 
gently in ten minutes, and the other horses with the same marked 
success. 

We have carefully studied the merits of this treatment, and 
have no hesitation in saying that Mr. Magner is the most skillful 
and successful horse tamer and educator who has ever visited 
this city. His method of treatment reduces the subjection and 
education of horses to a definite and fixed science, and is in prin- 
ciples and effect entirely superior to any other ever brought to 
our notice, and inaugurates a new era in the subjection of horses. 
The great ease and certainty with which horses of extreme vi- 
ciousness can be controlled by this treatment make the knowledge 
of it indispensable to all interested in horses, particularly to farm- 
ers and those who raise colts. These facts induce this committee 
to recommend all who can to attend Mr. Magner's lectures, and 
obtain a copy of his book. 

Geo. Lewis, Proprietor Sale and Boarding Stable, 50th 
street. 

J. D. DuNWALTON, Proprietor Boarding and Sale Stable, 39th 
street. 

Dan Mace, Proprietor Sale Stable, 49th street. 

W. W. Briggs, Proprietor Tattersall Stable, 7th Avenue and 
42d street. 

Arthur Gillender. 

N. H. Leadbetter, Proprietor Livery and Sale Stables, 7th 
Avenue and 45th street. 
James Mofpatt. 

Robert Bonner, Chairman. 

Charles Swift, Jun., Secretary. 



m NEW YOEK. 515 

The following well-known gentlemen, with one hundred 
others, fully indorse Mr. Magner's system as the best and most 
humane they have ever witnessed: — 

Frank D. Curtis, Esq., Vice-President State Agr. Society, 
Charlton, Saratoga Co., N. Y. 

David Bonner, Esq., Brother of Robert Bonner. 

G. Chapman, Esq., Inventor of Chapman's Patent Safety 
Reins. 

E. H. Hathorn, Proprietor Boarding and Sale Stable, 38th 
street, N. Y. 

Ralph Ogle, V. S., 330 W. 25th street, N. Y. 

L. H. Braily, V. S., Chief Veterinary Surgeon, U. S. Cav- 
alry. 

D. CoSTELLO, Esq., Great Circus Proprietor, with P. T. Bar- 
nura's Show. 

J. E. WiLKiNS, owner of vicious horse mentioned in Mr. Bon- 
ner's letter. 

BuDD DoBLE, Driver of Goldsmith Maid, South Penna, 
Square, Philadelphia, Perm. 

O. H. HiCKOK, Driver of Lucy, St. Elmo, and Western Girl, 
Coleman House, N. Y. 

Frank Leslie, Esq., Publisher of Frank Leslie's Weeklies, 
etc. 

James Harper, Esq., of Harper & Bros., Publishers. 

Rev, Dr. Field, Editor N. Y. Evangelist. 

Sidney E. Morse, Esq., Publisher N. Y. Observer, 

Rev. E. p. Roe, Chaplain in Harris's Light Cavalry, now of 
Highland Falls, New York. 

Report of Committee appointed by the New- York 
Cooper's Institute Farmers' Club, 

As requested, we attended Prof. Magner's exhibition on Tues- 
day, April 9, in connection with a large number of gentlemen, in- 
cluding a committee appointed by the horsemen of this city. Sev- 
eral horses of the most vicious character were subjected to treat- 
ment in our presence with most remarkably successful results. 
Mr. Magner's system is in principle entirely different from that of 
Rarey, or any other principle of taming horses we have ever wit- 
nessed. It is remarkably simple. A noticeable feature was, that 
none of the horses experimented upon were in the least excited or 
heated. 

While this treatment reduces to the lowest degree cruelty and 
abuse, it secures the most positive docility of even the most vicious 
horse in a remarkably short time; the most vicious horse sub- 



516 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 

jected to treatment before us not i-equiriug more than fifteen min- 
utes' time to make entirely gentle. 

We have no hesitation in saying that Prof. Magner has even 
more than sustained the high position he has assumed before this 
Club, and that he is a reformer of great merit, deserving of the en- 
couragement and assistance of all who desire the interests of so- 
ciety in the humane and skillful treatment of horses. 

Sereno Edwards Todd, Chairman. 

John W. Chambers, ) ^ .,, 
V D.S.MOULTON, \Gommxttee. 

When the committee made the above report to the Club, 
which as first made incorporated the details given by the 
other committee, they were laughed at, it being almost 
unanimously believed that it was impossible for me to con- 
trol horses as claimed. In fact, it was supposed that the 
committee were badly imposed upon and fooled. To vin- 
dicate themselves, the chairman, Mr. Todd, called on me 
early the following week, and made a very urgent request 
that I would go before the Club at its next meeting and 
sustain them. I did so, and gave such proof as convinced 
all of the correctness of the report. In introducing me to 
the Club, Mr. Todd made the following very compliment- 
ary remarks : — 

" We are living in an age when there is a moral sublimity in 
our existence. Illustrious kings and sages, who have slept with 
their fathers for centuries past, looked down the long vista of time 
to this auspicious day with longing desires to witness what our 
eyes behold with delight; but they died without the joyful sight. 
We are living in the twilight of millennial glory. The triumphs 
of mind over material things have never before been so magnifi- 
cent and so glorious as during the latter part of the nineteenth 
century. The galling yoke of tyranny and oppression, which has 
rested with crushing weight on the unfortunate sons of Ham for 
ages, has been broken off, and they are now being elevated to the 
realm of a higher life. The cruel club law, which has maintained 
a reign of tei*ror throughout the peaceful domain of our dumb an- 
imals, has been doomed to the charnel-house by the philanthropic 
efforts of President Henry Bergh [enthusiastic cheers], whose il- 
lustrious name will descend to prosterity with other worthies, 



IN NEW YOEK. 517 

crowned with diadems of terrestrial glory. Over and above all 
these, our session is honored with the presence of Professor D. 
Magner, a most efficient promulgator of the gospel of peace among 
our dumb animals. [Renewed cheers.] He has come freighted with 
messages of mercy and affection to the whole equine race — the 
noble horse — one of the noblest servants of the human family, 
whose sagacity and intelligence entitle this species of animals to 
be designated as the connecting link between human intelligence 
and the brute creation. He is a worthy missionary, proclaiming 
the glorious reign of peace to the long-abused horses of our land. 
He proposes to educate these faithful servants of mankind. The 
magnificent exhibitions of his competency to teach our dumb ani- 
mals to render cheerful service furnish the most satisfactory evi- 
dence that his credentials are almost supernal. [Cheers.] Good old 
Paul once came with messages of love to the ancient Jews, who 
disdained his high commission. Here comes a modern Paul to in- 
augurate a work which must be accomplished before the auspi- 
cious day of millennial glory can be ushered in, — our excellent 
secretary, who has seen and heard and believed in the joyful news 
to the horses of our country, and 

I go with Paul, as every one supposes; 

As for the Jews, why they may cleave to Moses." 



[Prolonged cheers.] 



Taming Hokses. 



At least we have one man who professes horse- taming, and 
who at the same time rises above the vulgar tricks of the char- 
latan. His name is Magner, and at the present writing his tent 
is pitched in this metropolitan city. He seems to have given 
honest study to his art, and to have brought a high degree of in- 
telligence to the study. He regards the horse not as a dull, stupid 
piece of clay, but as an animal able to draw deductions, and to be 
molded by firmness and kindness. He appeals to the under- 
standing, endeavors to make an impression on the brain, and to 
show cause for every efiect. His system is his secret, so we can- 
not go into an elaborate explanation. We have seen him operate, 
and we confess that we admire his skill. His best subjects are 
those which the charlatans pronounce the worst. His system is 
based upon logic, such a system as is worthy of a controlling 
power. Mr. Magner can cure the very worst cases. We honestly 
believe that there is not a horse in the world which he cannot 
make gentle and obedient. He boldly challenges any one to pro- 
duce a horse that he cannot handle, — Turf, Field, and Farm, 



518 PEESONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

A notoriously vicious horse was brought into the ring, and 
in less than thirty minutes was trotting in harness, as gentle as 
though he had always been a family horse, and this, too, without 
throwing or harsh treatment. Mr. Magner, standing on the axle 
of a pair of wheels, drove the horse about the ring by the tail, no 
sign of ill-temper being manifested. — Frank Leslie's Weekly. 

The panic of '73 compelled me to again change my 
method of doing business ; and now commenced one of the 
most laborious periods of my life. The people of large 
centers becoming pecuniarily embarrassed, I Avas compelled 
to avoid such towns, and confine my efforts almost wholly 
to the smaller country towns, where I could reach the 
farmers more easily. 

The belief was general among the peoj)le, that, back of 
my open efforts, there was a considerable degree of hum- 
bug, which, if they joined my class, they felt bound, if 
possible, to find out and expose. No matter how thorough 
the instructions, the measure of their satisfaction would be 
determined only in the subjection and driving before them 
of the most vicious and dangerous horses that could be 
found. These difficulties can be better understood when it 
is stated that the time for instruction was necessarily 
limited to from two to three hours ; and that I was 
frequently compelled to teach classes in unsuitably small, 
inconvenient places. 

This made it not only extremely difficult, but dangerous, 
to make the necessary experiments even upon ordinary 
cases ; and when compelled to take in hand a horse of an 
exceptionally vicious or dangerous character, while sur- 
rounded by a crowd of men in such a small place, the 
greatest care was needed to guard against accident; for 
should a horse resist or break away, there Avas liability of 
its resulting in serious harm. This was most to be 
apprehended in handling Avild, kicking colts and horses. 
Though I never had any serious accident from, such causes^ 



A TEST USUALLY GlYEK. 519 



Fig. 319. — A test usually given before the class. 



520 PEESONAL EXPERIENCE. 

the anxiety to which I was frequently subjected in conse- 
quence was very great. I will give the particulars of one 
case : — 

At North Pownal, Vt., a strong,large-boned; compact, 
gray horse was brought in for treatment. His only bad 
habit was kicking when the harness was put on. When 
shown a harness, he would kick and jump in the most 
furious manner, and continue to do so regardless of all 
restraint. He was one 'of the most desperate horses of this 
character I ever saw. I had a class of about one hundred 
persons crowded in a large carriage house, with no oppor- 
tunity of getting out of the way. The doors were closed 
on the outside, and guarded by a watchman who kept the 
crowd away. 

At the time, I was greatly prostrated, and compelled 
to depend upon an assistant to make the experiments. 
This man some time before had one of his arms seriously 
injured, from the effects of which he had not yet recovered. 
There would have been but little difficulty in subduing the 
horse by the regular treatment ; but as it was necessary 
to illustrate the First Method of Subjection (throwing), and 
as we hnd no other subject before us, we were compelled 
to illustrate it upon him. 

I told my assistant that this was an extremely danger- 
ous case, and in his present condition I was afraid to trust 
the case to him. He insisted, however, upon making the 
experiment, saying, "I can manage him." Yielding at 
last, I repeated the caution that he must take no chances. 
I saw that the horse was held firmly until the rig was 
securely on and all was ready, when, before he could 
resist, he was thrown easily and squarely upon his side. 
But the strength and vigor of the animal was so great that 
he had scarcely struck the ground before he made a spring 
that brought him fairly upon his feet. He instantly leaped 



DIFFICULTIES. 621 

into the air, kicked and pulled away, rushing around the 
enclosure, jumping and kicking with all the fury of a mad 
horse. He jumped at least eight or ten feet at a bound, 
and instantly he was nearly twenty feet away, having 
kicked four or five times, and was right upon the crowd. 

The people, screaming and tumbling over one another, 
strove to get away, but they were cornered, for the next 
bound of the horse was sure to bring him upon them. The 
instant he passed me, I jumped for him, and, fortunately, 
was able to grasp him by the head ; being on the inside, 
as it were, of the circle, the momentum of the jerk upon 
the head sideways stopped him so quickly as to throw him 
squarely upon his side. 

Had I failed to catch and control him, he would 
undoubtedly have injured or killed a number of persons. 
I now took him in hand, and, with the aid of my assistant, 
soon made him stand quietly to have the harness put upon 
him, though he resisted the utmost of extreme treatment 
before submitting. 

Another great and frequent cause of embarrassment to 
me was, after subjecting a horse to treatment before a 
class, it was supposed that if the system was good for 
anything, he must perform equally well out of doors. As 
frequently explained, a horse must be subjected to treat- 
ment out of doors in order to insure his working there. If 
subjected to treatment in a building only, when taken into 
the streets where he has been in the habit of resisting, he 
would be liable to show as much fear and resistance as 
though not subjected to treatment at all. To let the horse 
resist under such circumstances would be fatal to my 
success. Still this proof was in most cases demanded, and 
had to be given. 

I have frequently referred to this difficulty in different 
parts of the work, particularly in the last chapter — Familiar 



522 



PBESO]^AL EXPEEIENCE. 




Fig. 399.— As some vicious horses were frequently led in to be experimented 
upon before the class. 



TEST EXPEEIMENTS. 523 

Talk; but I will also refer to representative cases in point 
here. 

In my early career, and just before my experiment 
upon the " Roberts Horse " at Utica, N. Y., I visited Clin- 
ton, six miles distant, where I had a large class. Among 
the subjects brought in to be experimented upon was a 
large bay horse, which had resisted every eifort to ride 
him. I was soon able to get upon his back and ride around 



Fig. 300. — One of the tests usually given after subjection. 

the barn without his giving any sign of fear or resistance. 
Understanding his treacherous character, I knew that he 
could not be safely ridden outside. But regardless of my 
protests, the owner and entire class insisted that I should 
ride him out of doors. 

Finally yielding to their demands, the door was thrown 
open and I rode him out. He would have continued gentle, 
but the owner, as I was afterward informed, getting angry 
because the horse was acting so well, gave him a sharp 
J^ick as he went by him through the door. This caused 



524 



PBESOJSTAL EXPEEIENCE. 



the horse to spring furiously forward, and as I could not 
restrain him, he bounded headlong over a big wagon loaded 
with fodder, which stood in front of the door, and came 
down near the hind wheel. 

There was a high, crooked rail fence running parallel 
with his course, to which he ran so close that the ends of 
the rails almost touched my leg. To remain on would 




Fig. 301. — As usually led home after treatment. 

endanger my being torn off, and to avoid this, I jumped 
off. The horse, being soon secured, was brought back, 
and I again subjected him to treatment in the barn, after 
which I rode him outside, as desired. The incident 
impressed me as being so ludicrous that I give an illustra- 
tion of it. 

When at Sugar Grove, Pa., a pony mare of so balky a 
character that she had not been driven in harness for 
years, was the only subject for experiment. I was careful 



TEST BXPEEIMENTS. 



625 



to explain that a horse of this character could not be 
broken by any treatment I could subject her to in a barn ^ 
that she must be treated in the street, or where in the 
habit of balking, when her management would not be at all 
difficult. 

I had a large class, and after a few minutes' treatment, 
I was able, without difficulty, to drive her in the barn 




Fig. 302. — As the horse jumped over the wagon. 

perfectly manageable. But at the conclusion of the lesson, 
the class insisted upon my driving her in the streets as a 
condition of their being satisfied. I saw at once a precon- 
certed purpose to break me down, as an excuse to get their 
money back, and I determined if possible to outwit them. 
It was impossible to obtain the privacy to handle her out- 
side as I desired, since there was a clamorous crowd watch- 
ing every movement ; and in addition, a violent rain-storm 
had set in. 



526 PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. 

I reminded them that it would be unpleasant to go out 
in such a storm, even though I could obtain the privacy 
necessary for the handling. But they expressed their 
entire willingness to stand the storm, and insisted upon the 
action ; so I said, " I will go to the outside of the town 
and subject the mare to treatment, then drive her back to 
the hotel without her balking, if that will satisfy you ; but 
you must go out and keej) the crowd in the road." To 
this they agreed. 

I then directed the class to go in a body to the gate, 
and keep the crowd back as I passed through, promising 
not to keep them waiting more than five minutes. But 
regardless of the storm and opposition, the moment I 
passed beyond the gate, the crowd went right and left over 
the fence after me ; and the class also, being anxious to 
see what I would do, followed in a body. Finally, by the 
aid of the class, I succeeded in holding outsiders in a circle 
of about fifty feet distant, when I subjected the mare 
quickly to the Second Method. 

Having everything ready, I hitched her to the wagon 
before she could concentrate her purpose to resist, jumped 
in, and gave her a sharp touch with the whip, at the same 
time pulling the near rein, when she started off on a trot, 
then on a run, in a circle around the field. This accom- 
plished, I told them to open the gate, or I would drive 
over it. The cracking of the whip, and the yelling 
and shouting from the crowd of men and boys follow- 
ing, were sufiicient to frighten the mare into going back to 
the hotel all right. I then jumped out, saying, " I guess 
that will do." All laughed good humoredly, saying, " He 
did it. It is all right." 

The severe shower made a reasonable excuse for the 
quick rush. The real difficulty was in not having sufficient 
privacy or opportunity to subject her to treatment for 



ANNOYII^G DIFFICULTIES. 62*7 

balking ; and once having made the effort, it would have 
been necessary to have driven the mare at their dictation, 
which would have resulted in certain defeat. 

During my experience in this business, while there was 
often much that caused me extreme annoyance, yet there 
was still oftener much that gave me interest and courage in 
my work. Upon retrospection, I am reminded of many 
phases and incidents connected with my experience that will 
always remain fresh in my memory as constantly recurring 
sources of pleasure and encouragement. There are also 
many men to whom I feel under such deep obligations for 
kindnesses shown me, that I would be glad to express my 
thanks to them personally if I knew their address, and 
would deem it a great pleasure to remind them of it by 
sending them copies of this book. 

Almost daily, my professional experience was a mixture 
of both comic and serious difficulties. Many people would 
come out to see the ponies perform, without any purpose 
of joining the class, as they thought what I advertised 
could not be true, fearing that I had the power, if they 
came near me, to deceive them and pocket their money. 
Some even went so far as to say that they would not 
believe I could do what I had advertised, even though they 
saw me do it. 

But when such w(?re finally induced to join the class, 
they were usually the most interested, and not infrequently 
thanked me for persuading them to do so. On expressing 
their approbation of my system to their neighbors, and 
advising them to join the class, they would in turn receive 
a shake of the head, as if to say, " He has pulled the 
wool over your eyes, but he cannot do it with us." And 
what appeared strange, was that all this could be, regard- 
less of the fact that to every man was given a personal 
guarantee that if I failed in any respect to do just what I 



528 PEESONAL EXPEEIENCB. 

advertised and promised, he could demand a return of his 
money. I was often compelled, on this account, to do 
more than I advertised, to he sure of satisfying every one. 
Sometimes, during my early experience, I lost scholars, 
and occasionally whole classes ; hut later on these cases 
became less frequent, and still later I lost none at all. 

A frequent cause of difficulty was in having no suitable 
place in which to handle horses, or no suitable subject 
upon which to illustrate treatment ; or I was limited to the 
subjection of a particularly obstinate or difficult case, that 
could give no correct idea of the effect of the treatment 
upon average cases, thereby making it difficult for people 
to understand the value of my system. By way of illus- 
tration, I will refer to two cases in point : — 

When at Onionta, N. Y., in my last run through the 
State, I had a large class. The only case brought in for 
treatment was an extremely bad, kicking mare. This was 
very embarrassing, on account of inability to illustrate the 
effect of but one method of treatment, and that on the most 
difficult subject possible to handle before a class ; and also 
because they supposed this would represent the effect of 
the treatment upon horses generally. While no one found 
fault, I felt there was not that impression of satisfaction 
and interest usually manifested. At Milford, two days 
later, a member of the class referred to told me privately 
that one of his neighbors was decidedly dissatisfied, and 
felt that the book was really all he had received for his 
money. The man offered him $2.50 for it, but $3.00 w^as 
the lowest price he would take. 

During the evening, a four-year-old colt, one that had 
never been haltered, entirely unbroken and wild, was by 
chance up near the house, when the thought struck him to 
see what he could do with it. In ten minutes he had the 
colt gentle to handle, and following him in any manner, 



- - TEST EXPEEIMENTS. 529 

allowing himself to be ridden, the feet taken up, etc. In 
fact, he did with the colt anything he pleased. 

He had a five-year-old colt that was very much afraid 
of hogs. The result of this experiment was so gratifying, 
and gave him so much confidence, that he thought he would 
see what he could do with this second one. In less than 
fifteen minutes, he was so successful that he was able to 
lead the colt near to or over hogs without his showing any 
fear. The result was, the man now became greatly inter- 
ested. 

At the next town, I mentioned the circumstance to the 
class, to encourage them, by showing how easy it was to do 
what they supposed to be very difficult, and really within 
the reach of any man who would try ; when, to my surprise 
and that of all present, a man stepped forward from the 
back part of the crowd, saying that he was the man referred 
to, and that he would not take $50 for the knowledge 
obtained of me ; that he was much interested, and that he 
had come eighteen miles to attend my lecture again. 

Incidents of this kind were of almost daily occurrence. 
Persons with difficulty persuaded to join the class, would 
afterward say that they would not be deprived of the 
knowledge obtained for hundreds of dollars. 
I When at Derbyline, Yt., an enterprising little town on 
the boundary line of the northern part of the State, I had 
a large class. Among the incredulous who could not be 
induced to join the class, was a man who was recognized 
as one of the most successful horsemen in the neighborhood. 
During the time, a young man of fifteen, a member of my 
class, who had never handled horses, said to him that on 
the next day he would drive a certain six-year-old colt 
that had never been harnessed, and have him so gentle that 
the cross-piece could strike against the q^uarters without- 
pausing him to kick. 

H 



530 PEESONAL EXPERIENCE. 

The old horseman regarded this as a boast, knowing 
the colt to he exceptionally bad, and unbroken, and said he 
would certainly regard it as a great feat to driA^e such a 
colt with the breeching, after six weeks' training. But to 
his surprise, the boy did drive the colt as stated. The 
man concluded that if an inexperienced boy, on joining the 
class, could learn to do so much in so short a time, he him- 
self ought surely to be able to do as much ; and if he 
could, such knowledge " Avould be worth a hundred dollars" 
to him (his own language afterward) . A week later, he 
followed me to Barton, thirty miles, to join the class. On 
account of his prejudice, he could not be induced to do so 
in his own town, where it could have been done at a trifling 
expense. 

^ I was constantly met with so much prejudice and 
opposition, that I was sometimes compelled not only to 
incur great risk, but to make unusual effort to inspire con- 
fidence in my treatment. The mere statement of the 
following facts will show the extent of this opposition : 
First, all the cases referred to were representative ones of 
an almost unlimited number that could be mentioned, 
which were broken solely for the purpose of proving this. 
Not only was I compelled to do all this work for nothing, 
but to assume the responsibility for any possible damages, 
and in many cases was obliged to pay, and liberally too, 
for the privilege of breaking the horses. 

The "Press Horse" (Case 1, Fear), which before 
treatment was considered practically worthless, was not 
only broken without charge, but the owner was passed into 
the class free as an inducement to obtain the horse, with a 
guarantee that it should not be injured ; and in addition 
the owner was promised the best suit of clothes he could 
buy in the city of Buffalo if the horse was not made gentle 
in twenty minutes. 



DIFPICtTLTIES. 531 

Wild Pete (Case 8, Fear) was entirely worthless be- 
fore I took him in hand. He was not only broken for 
nothing and made a safe family horse, but cost me in loss 
of time and expense nearly one hundred dollars. The 
Yates Horse (Case 8, Fear), the Watson Horse (Case 3, 
Kicking), were broken for nothing. The Chapman Horse 
(Case 9, Kicking) was not only broken for nothing, but at 
a loss of time and expense to me of fully fifty dollars. The 
McVay Horse (Case 7, Kicking) I not only broke for 
nothing, but pledged to forfeit $500 if I could not drive 
her gentle in forty minutes. The Hettrick Horse (Case 
4, Kicking), which before treatment was positively worth- 
less, and one of the most vicious horses I ever saw, was 
made a safe and valuable horse without a penny's compen- 
sation. The Malone Horse (Case 2, Kicking) I was com- 
pelled to buy at a large price to show that I could break 
him. For the Stevens Stallion (Case 10, Kicking) I gave 
a personal guarantee of $500 that he should not be in- 
jured, and in addition I promised to pay $25 if I did not 
make him gentle in fifteen minutes. . • 

The Allegan Horse (Case 10, Subjection) one of the 
most vicious horses known in the Northwest was broken 
for nothing. The Roberts Stallion (Case 11, Subjection), 
regarded so vicious as to be practically worthless, was 
broken at a great risk, and Avithout pay. The Omnibus 
Horse (Case 3, Subjection) was not only broken for noth- 
ing, but in addition several men passed into the class free. 
The Brookville Horse (Case 2, Fear), though previously 
worthless, was made a safe and valuable horse for nothing, 
and the owner passed into the class free. The Wilkins 
Horse (Case 6, Subjection) was not only broken for noth- 
ing, but to obtain him to experiment upon I was compelled 
to pledge $1,000, as a guarantee against injury, and a for- 
feiture of an additional $100 if he could not be made gen- 
tle in forty minutes. 



532 PEESONAL BXPEEIENCB. 

The noted horse Jet (Case No. 7, Subjection) was not 
only broken for nothing, but in the seriously impaired con- 
dition of my health at the time, was the cause of an amount 
of strain and injury to me that I would not have been in- 
duced to incur for many hundreds of dollars. I Avas not 
only compelled to go to Portland and remain there over a 
week at my own expense, but to admit nearly a hundred 
leading citizens without charge to witness the experiments 
as a reference which could not be questioned. In addition 
to making the experiments, there was also an element of 
danger not to be estimated. It was a common expression 
in Portland, that there was not money enough in any bank 
in the city to induce any man to go into Jet's stable and 
take him out of it. After the subjection of the horse it was 
unanimously voted that owners of horses could not afford 
to be without a knowledge of my system, even though at 
a cost to each of $25. I include here the names of a few 
of the leading citizens who were present : — 

Dr. S. H. Tewksberey, Leading Surgeon, President Presum- 
scott Park Association. 

Dr. B. B. Foster, Congress st., Sec. Presumscott Park Asso- 
ciation. 

J. W. Robinson, Prop, of Livery and Hack Stabl&s. 

Dr. W. W. Green, High st.. Leading Surgeon. 

A. M. Sawyer, Esq., Agt. Society for the Prevention of 
Cruelty to Animals. 

Chas. Sager, Prop. Livery and Hack Stables, Vice Pres. 
Presumscott Park Association. 

Gen'l Tilton, Director State Agricultural Association. 

Rev. Wm. H. Finn, Pastor High st. Congregational church. 

Rev. a. p. Hillman, Chaplain to State Reform School, 
and owner of "Jet." 

Dr. John Buzzell, Pleasant st. 

Dr. Dana, Free st. 

Dr. Small, Congress st. '' % 

Dr. French, Congress st. 

Dr. S. p. Getchell, Congress st. 

Dr. Bray, Brown st. 

Wm. G. Davis, Esq., Proprietor Portland Packing Co, 



KEEPING ENGAGEMENTS. 533 

G. F. HiTCHiNS, Esq., R. R. Contractor, 
E. Wentworth, Esq., Supt. State Reform School. 
Geo. Milliken, Grocery and Provisions Dealer, and Prop. 
Glen House, N. H. 

And 50 others. 

I have many times been compelled to take such des- 
perate chances in the subjection of especially dangerous 
horses, that it was like hazarding my life to the merest 
chances of success ; yet it has been my good fortune, that 
in an experience of over twenty years I never had a bone 
broken, nor have I been seriously disabled, though I have 
had many narrow escapes. I have also been singularly 
fortunate in not killing or seriously injuring a horse, though 
frequently compelled to take great chances. 

One of the great secrets of my success was that I never 
resorted to any jockeyism, and always told the exact truth 
as nearly as I could. I made it a special point to tell the 
people exactly what I could do, and if I failed to give the 
promised satisfaction in every particular, I would give to 
each man his money back. 

In looking back I find, one great element of my success 
to have been that I made it a rule, no matter how difficult, 
to always keep faith with the public by keeping my en- 
gagements. I have many times declined the oifer of large 
classes because it would necessitate remaining over the ap- 
pointed time and thus prevent my fulfilling an engagement 
elsewhere, even though there the prospects for success 
might seem extremely doubtful. During periods of ob- 
struction in traveling I have often paid nearly as much for 
aid in opening roads and being carried through as I would 
make in filling the engagement. No storm, however se- 
vere, if it were possible to go through it, was ever sufficient 
to deter me from keeping an engagement. In addition, the 
interest many would evince in my efi'orts after joining my 
classes was frequently not only generous but flattering in 



534 PEESONAL EXPEKIENCB. 

the extreme. In fact, the remembrance of this alone is 
sufficient to inspire a sense of encouragement and faith in 
human nature, that far outweighs whatever I have experi- 
enced that has been unpleasant. I am also largely indebted 
to the faithful co-operation of the assistants who were in 
my employ for many years. My general manager, Dr. 
Harlow Williams, who was with me over eight years, was 
always at his post, and by his prudence and faithfulness he 
rendered me invaluable service. Mr. E. B. Sims, my ad- 
vance agent over seven years, proved himself one of the 
most industrious and faithful of men, making his service 
indispensable. Mr. Thomas Johnson, who was with me 
over ten years, much of the time acting as my assistant in 
teaching classes, acquired unusual skill in the subjection of 
horses, and rendered me good service. 

My health had become so seriously impaired by the 
great strain to which I had been subjected for so many 
years, that in the winter of '78 I was compelled to give up 
my business. I now concluded to carry out, at my leisure, 
the purpose which had for some years been developing in 
my mind, that of writing up the full details of my system, 
including such knowledge as I believed most valuable to 
horse owners for reference.* 

This work is not only the first of the kind published 
explaining the art of taming and educating horses, but it 
is the practical outgrowth of my experience. In its writ- 
ing I have not only aimed to give the fullest explanation 
of my principles and methods of management with all the 
details carefully classified, but as an additional aid I have 

*The difficulties of doing this can be better understood wlien I state tliat in 
the first place I am not a practical writer, and that owing to cerebral inflammation 
I have not been able to write a single page of this book with my own hand, nor 
read any part of it for revision or correction. It has been patiently dictated by me 
to a copyist, then read for revision, thereby making the work of its writing and ar- 
ranging extremely laborious and difficult. 



EEVIEW. 585 

included the details of treatment of over forty of the most 
interesting and difficult cases subdued by me, giving age, 
color, cause of viciousness, etc., supplemented by a general 
review of principles under the head of Subjection. In this 
book will be found explained for the first time the secret 
of Rarey's success in the control of Cruiser and the other 
test cases in England and France, also of whom he ob- 
tained his knowledge of the treatment he used, which will 
be found of much interest. 

It has been well known wherever I have traveled that 
I taught my system as a secret which I never gave in 
print ; and on account of the great expense in traveling, 
requiring not only the aid of skilled men, but from five to 
ten horses, that to give me a reasonable compensation I 
was compelled to charge five, and in some sections of country 
ten dollars for such instructions, thus putting them within 
the reach of but a comparatively few. In addition, the 
time at my disposal for each class being so limited, it was 
impossible for me to give more than the merest outline of 
my system. The importance, then, of making this knowl- 
edge available to all at a moderate cost, can be seen. Cer- 
tainly I could not give in many days' instruction the full 
details herein given. It will be especially valuable to my 
old scholars for reference. Take, for example, the expla- 
nation of the War Bridle ; only a few, by the instructions 
given in the class, could remember even its simplest form 
of use. Here all the details of its various forms of appli- 
cation have been fully explained and illustrated. So in re- 
lation to methods of subjection and the principles of their 
application, with all the other details, including treatment 
for diseases, etc. 

I may be permitted to add that I never could feel 
that I had any special fitness for winning even ordinary 
success in this field of effort. I simply drifted, as explained, 



^^6 PEESONAL EXPEEIENCE. 

by circumstances into the current of its study, and the ob- 
istacles and difficulties it presented, compelled the effort to 
overcome them. One thing of which I first, last, and always 
tried to learn the secret was, to what degree there was 
"power to change the character, or to make vicious horsevS 
gentle. This has been the central point of all my efforts. 
1 can now see how easy it is to fail in the subjection of even 
ordinary cases for want of knowing how to adapt the treat- 
ment properly ; and when there is failure, it will ninety- 
nine times out of every hundred be caused by the igno- 
rance or unfitness of the trainer. On this account, when 
my health will permit, I intend to lecture occasionally to 
farmers and horsemen at convenient centers, making such 
experiments as may be advisable to enable a better under- 
standing of the details here given. The better to carry 
out this purpose, I would ask the owners of especially 
valuable horses which are well known in their vicinity as 
vicious and dangerous, to write me particulars in relation 
to them, such as age, color, peculiarity of disposition, etc., 
and when convenient, I will give notice when I will ex- 
periment upon such. 




OEAPTER Xril. 



BREEDING. 



One of the primaiy points of success in any enterprise 
is to start right, and in no respect is this more true than in 
the breeding of horses. The law of like producing like is 
inexorable ; consequently to raise good horses, good horses 
must be bred from. Many farmers who are keenly alive 
to other interests, are singularly thoughtless and imprudent 
in this. If a mare is broken down, and unfit for labor, no' 
matter how coarse or badly formed she is, or what the 
evidence of constitutional unsoundness, she is usually 
reserved to breed from. 

On the same principle, no matter how coarse the 
stallion, if he is fat and sleek, and if his use can be obtained 
cheaply, he is selected for the same purpose. The most 
ignorant farmer is particular to select the largest and 
soundest potatoes, the best quality of oats, wheat, etc., for 
seed, because he has learned that this is true economy ; 
yet there is the utmost disregard of this law of prudence 
in the breeding of horses and farm-stock in general. This 
sort of economy is like paying a quarter for a chicken and 
giving a dollar to get it carried home. 

It costs just as much to raise a poor, coarse-blooded 
colt, as a fine-blooded one. The cost of feeding and care 
is really the same, the only difference being in that of the 
use of the horse. The first will possibly sell, when five 
years old and trained to harness, for from a hundred to a 

(537) 



538 BEEEDING. 

hundred and fifty dollars. The other is worth from two 
hundred to a thousand, and possibly more. The first will 
scarcely sell for the cost of feeding and care. The second 
insures a largo profit, and this for a little additional first 
cost. The fact is, breeding from poor, unsound horses is so 
much a detriment, that it would be a damage to any one to 
be compelled to breed from such stock, if given for the 
purpose. 

In Russia, Prussia, and Austria, the breeding of horses 
is controlled by the governments, each one having large 
breeding establishments, where those wishing, can procure 
sound stallions, devoid of all hereditary diseases. Each 
stallion is furnished with a certificate from the government. 
No other stallions are allowed to serve mares, under a 
penalty. The result is, that you will scarcely find an 
unsound horse, except from accidents, etc. Hereditary 
diseases, such as ophthalmia, roaring, rupture, spavin, ring- 
bone, curby hock, spongy feet, etc., are scarcely known. 
It would be a source of undoubted economy and benefit to 
the breeders, if the legislature of each State would enact 
such laws, by appointing competent inspectors to grant 
licenses to those free from blemish or hereditary diseases 
or unsoundness. 

A few years' breeding, under such restrictions, would 
materially increase the value of horses in each State, and 
thus be a real blessing to owners and the country. 

In selecting a stallion, first look carefully at his head. 
The nostrils should be large and well defined ; eyes full, 
bright, and clear, and good breadth between them; the 
ears lively, rather short and tapering, and the head high 
between the ears. Next see that the throat shows no 
enlargement of the glands, indicating a tendency toward a 
whistler or roarer. The shoulder should be oblique, 
strong and high, the fore leg not tied in under the knee, 
for such are liable to spring. 



SELECTION OF STALLIOIS. 539 

The feet should be of good size, and of sufficient depth 
to give strength to the quarters. Spongy and flat feet 
should be rejected. The loin should be strong, the back 
well coupled, quarters broad from point to point of hips, 
and running nearly straight out to the root of the tail. The 
stifle should stand low and well out; hocks strong and 
broad ; no puffs or windgalls, as these indicate weakness. 

As a colt from such a horse may at an early age show 
indications of blood spavin or thoroughpin, look at the 
inside of the hock for an enlargement at the point of what 
is called a jack spavin or curb. Next see that there is no 
enlargement at the edge of the hoof, known as ringbone. 
Weak eyes, blindness, poll-evil, fistula of withers, or in fact 
any cause of unsoundness should be sufficient cause for re- 
jecting a stallion. I need not enlarge upon the fact that 
the mare should be selected with the same care. 

The reader will be aided in the study of disposition 
bodily form, and the general characteristics of good and 
bad animals, by reference to the illustrations already given, 
and especially those in the following chapter. These Avill 
enable the mind to grasp these points better than it would 
be possible to do by the most extended verbal descriptions. 

The following from a leading writer on selection is so 
much to the point that I cannot do better than to copy it : — 

To be successful in breeding, special attention should 
be given to the particular variety of horse required. If 
heavy draught horses, or evenly trotting roadsters, or ponies, 
are required, both the sire and dam should be selected 
with special reference to these points. Desired effects can 
in a great measure be produced by proper crossings. If 
the mare is light-boned, or defective in this or in any other 
respect, select a horse that possesses the contrast of greater 
strength. But to insure certainty of obtaining what is 
wanted, the mare and horse should be as near the type of 



540 BPtEEDlNCr. 

what is desired as possible, though not related. Disposi- 
tion should be an important consideration, as its inheritance 
will be as certain as that of physical qualities. 

I give on page 87 a portrait of a remarkably fine 
Norman horse, imported by E. Dillon & Co., of Illinois, 
which is but one sample of a large variety of horses of this 
fine breed for draught purposes. I learn also that Stubble- 
field & Co., of the same city, are large importers of Norman 
horses. This breed of horses is remarkable for good dis- 
position, and exemption from hereditary weaknesses. For 
a fine model of a thoroughbred, I would call attention to 
the portrait of the famous Godolphin Arabian, in chapter 
on Stallions. 

Care of the Mare. 

The mare is said to go with foal eleven months, or three 
hundred days ; but it is not uncommon for mares to have 
fully developed foals in much less time, and in many 
instances mares have been known to go four or five weeks 
beyond this time. Time should be so arranged in putting 
mares, that the colts will come at a time when there is 
some grass, as the mare will do better not to be confined to 
dry feed. 

The virgin mare, or one that has not had a colt for one 
season, must be put when she is found in season. The 
mare that has had a colt will be found in season, and should 
be put on the eighth or ninth day after foaling ; some pre- 
fer the eighth, others the eleventh. Good judges claim 
that it is dangerous to go beyond the tenth, as the mare is 
apt to come off her heat sooi^ after, and if allowed to go to 
a later period, the sucking of the colt is likely to reduce 
the mare too much to allow conception to take place, and 
thus a year's service of the breeder is lost. 

After putting a mare, the days for trial are the ninth 



CAEB OF THE MARE. 541 

after service, the seventh after this, the fifth after this 
again. Some commence again, commencing with the ninth 
day, and follow up as before, making forty-two days. 
Twenty-one days being the period elapsing between a 
mare's going out of heat, and coming in again, making her 
periodical term thirty days. Twenty-one days is claimed 
to be sufficient to prove a mare. 

Reference is made elsewhere in this work to the 
importance of protecting the breeding mare from excite- 
ment, abuse, etc. Especial care should be exercised in this 
matter, as fright, exposure to bad weather, improper feed- 
ing, or any influence that would seriously disturb the 
normal condition of the nervous system, will have its 
certain effect upon the colt, often to the great loss of the 
owner. 

The mare and colt should be well fed, and protected 
from storms. The theory of working a mare hard, and half 
starving the colt, is the poorest kind of economy, since the 
mare needs generous feed and rest, to renew her strength 
and make her milk, by which of course the colt is nourished 
and made to grow. When size and strength will indicate 
that it is time to wean, which is usually in five or six 
months, put the colt in a quiet pasture, away from the 
mare, where it should be closely looked after. A little 
oats (better if bruised) should be given daily. 

The conclusion of careful breeders is, that it is much 
better for a colt to run in pasture, than to be confined in a 
stable. If the colt is intended for farm use, castration may 
be performed when six months old; if, however, the 
withers are light, it should be postponed until the head and 
neck fill up to the degree required, and this may require 
from one to two years, or even more. If the head is large 
and heavy, early castration is advisable. Colts should be 
generously fed, and protected from the inclemency of the 



642 BEEEDING. 

weather in winter. They should be treated gently. May 
be broken early to harness, if treated gently and with care. 
This, however, is hazardous, as there is danger of over- 
driving young colts if they are driven at all. Many seem 
to take pride in trials to which they subject two or three- 
year-old colts. It is not what they can do, but what they 
ought to be required to do. 




CHAPTER XT I II. 



STABLING. 

The stable should be built on a dry, airy location, 
facing the south when possible. It should be warm, well 
ventilated and lighted, and so constructed as to prevent 
the exposure of the horse to sudden changes of temperature. 
The stall should be sufficiently large to allow the horse to 
turn around or lie down, with conveniences for feeding. 
The width should be not less than six feet, but when 
practicable, it would be better to allow each horse ten or 
twelve feet, to admit of a reasonable degree of exercise. 
This is not merely a great convenience to the horse, but it 
has considerable influence in preventing swelled legs, 
getting cast, etc. It is also important in that it permits a 
safer approach to a doubtful or vicious horse. It is the 
common custom to make the floor inclining backward, but 
this practice is unnatural, as shown by the fact that the 
horse, when left to choose his own position in a field, will 
almost invariably stand with his fore feet the lowest. See 
illustration. 

The floor should be level ; and to permit this, and at 
the same time keep it dry, it should be constructed as fol- 
lows : Incline the floor backward about two inches, making 
it water-tight, with an opening or drain at the back end for 
the water to pass off. Arrange upon this an extra floor of 
slats, about an inch to an inch and a quarter thick, and 
five-eighths to three-fourths of an inch apart. The back 

(543) 



544 



STABLING. 



ends should be two inches thicker than the front, to com- 
pensate for the slope of the floor underneath, and thus give 
a level surface for the animal to stand upon, while the 
water can pass between the slats and drain off. This upper 
floor should be made in two parts, so as to open from the 
center upward, and stand upon edge while the lower floor 
is washed or cleansed as desired. This is the method of 
construction in one of the most perfect stables in the coun- 




FiG. 303. — As a horse usually stands while resting in a field. 

try, to an examination of which the author is indebted for 
the idea. 

The door should be large, with an extra one of slats, 
which can be used during warm weather," exclusively 
for light and ventilation. It would also be well to have 
screens or mosquito netting over the door and windows, to 
protect the horse from flies, — a great annoyance to sensi- 
tive animals. 

One of the most serious objections to stables as they 
are usually constructed throughout the country is the lack 



SEEIOUS OBJECTIONS. 545 

of proper ventilation. Usually they are nothing hut close 
boxes, and entirely too small for the number of horses kept 
in them. The doors and windows are closed, and the bed- 
ding, saturated with ammonia, is tucked away under the 
manger. If there is an upper flooring, it is made the re- 
ceptacle for hay, so that it not only obstructs any possible 
ventilation through the stable, but by becoming impreg- 
nated with the poisoned air below, it is rendered unfit for 
food. Any one going into such a stable, especially during 




Fig. 304. — The accepted method in general use. 

warm weather, will have the eyes immediately affected by 
the escape of ammonia, which, with the contamination oi 
the air caused by being breathed over and over, makes it 
even sickening to breathe any length of time. 

It is evident that to supply the wear and tear of bodily 
structure, the food must not only be good, but of sufficient 
quantity to supply nourishment to the body. Now a horse 
can live days, and even weeks, without food, while he can- 
not live five minutes without air. 

It is needless to enter into details as to the quantity oi 
air a horse breathes in any given time, as every intelligent 
reader has a good idea of this ; but the fact that a horse 

35 



546 



STABLING. 



will quickly die when deprived of air is not so forcibly im- 
pressed upon the mind. Now it is evident that if the blood 
is not oxygenated by means of pure air passing to the 
lungs, the system will soon be poisoned ; thus it is seen how 
necessary it is that there should be plenty of air in the 
stable, and as pure and free from contamination as pos- 
sible. If it becomes impure in consequence of there being 
too many horses in the stable, and also loaded with am- 
monia from the bedding, it cannot properly purify the 
blood or carry away through the proper channels the 







Fig. 305.— Objectionable method of tying. 

broken-down, worn-out particles of matter, and thus per- 
mit a proper nutrition of the body. Instead of this, aU the 
various conditions of disease are engendered. This is par- 
ticularly noticeable as the source of ophthalmia, grease, 
glandular swellings, etc. Now if pure air were obtained 
only at a great expense, it might be a reasonable excuse 
for not furnishing it in necessary abundance ; but the fact 
that it is obtainable in all cases with a very little trouble 
and care, renders this neglect little less than a crime, for 
which there should be no excuse or apology. 

Now an abundance of ventilation in the stables may be 



VEJifTlLATION. 



547 



supplied in various ways, but the simplest and best is sub- 
stantially as follows : A chimney or opening through the 
ceiling may be made in the form of a dome or cupola. The 
top should be roofed over and have lateral openings by 
means of weather-boards. The most conA^enient or com- 
fortable stable the writer has ever seen had such a venti- 
lator, which was so regulated that it could be partly or 
wholly closed, as desired. This was accomplished by 
means of two cords attached to opposite edges of a revolv- 
ing door, and adjusted in the lower part of this opening or 




Fig. 306.--Rack too high. 

chimney. Another special convenience was a contrivance 
for obtaining and measuring grain to be fed, which was so 
ingenious that I give a description of it : The grain was 
conducted from the loft to the feeding floor by a spout in 
which were two slides. Pulling out one of these slides a 
few inches permitted the escape of two quarts, and the 
other one of four quarts of grain, which was deposited in a 
drawer beneath. In the bottom of the drawer was a screw, 
with a handle projecting from the side of the spout. Mov- 
ing this handle right and left a few times shook the bottom 
like a sieve, and thus removed all the dust and dirt, leav- 
ing the grain clean, fresh, and ready for use. 



548 STABLING. 

I have found two features about the stables as usually 
constructed through the country, which are so faulty that 
I would urge the necessity of having them corrected. 
First, in the construction of mangers and racks. The man- 
ger, an open trough, is usually so high that a horse of 
medium height can barely reach over and put his nose to 
the bottom. Extending over this manger is a rack so high 
that the horse can scarcely rjeach the hay from it. There 
is usually more hay packed into this than the horse can 
eat at one time, so it is suffered to remain there until it 
becomes stale and sour from the horse breathing upon it, 
and the exhalations from the bedding which is usually 
packed during the day under the manger. When the horse 
reaches for the hay, the dust and dirt which have accumu- 
lated are thrown over his head and eyes. In the first 
place, the horse does not like to eat such trash ; secondly, 
it is difficult for him to reach it ; thirdly, he is liable to be 
annoyed, if not injured, by the hay and dirt filtering into 
his eyes and mane. 

The nearer the horse is made to feed in the stall as he 
does in the field, the better. But if compelled to eat grain 
from the ground, there would be waste. To avoid this, a 
receptacle must be provided in a corner about on a level 
with the shoulder, from which to eat grain ; but the hay 
should be measured and put in a corner on the ground 
where it can be easily reached. If there is not too much 
given, the horse will eat it clean. 

The importance of this is now so well understood that 
all first-class horses are fed in this way. For the ordinary 
work horse, or country stables, a simple low rack or man- 
ger, one side made into a box or receptacle for the grain, 
and the other part for hay, is all that is necessary. If two 
horses are kept together, the stall should be about twelve 
feet wide, with grain boxes at the right and left, and the 



PEOPEB STYLE OF EACK. 



549 



manger for hay in the center. Horses accustomed to work- 
ing together will always agree when kept in the same stall, 
especially when they have separate mangers, and are pre- 
vented by their halters from interfering with each other's 
grain. The mangers and racks should be on a level, and 
about three feet and four inches from the ground. The 
manger should not be less than sixteen or eighteen inches 
deep ; eighteen inches from front to back, and twenty or 
twenty-two inches in length. For one horse, the rack 




Fig. 307. — The accepted form of single stalls. 

should be about four feet in length. The advantage of such 
a manger and rack is, that all the hay that is put into it 
will be eaten clean. There will be less danger than by 
the common high rack of putting more hay before the horse 
than he will eat at the time, and thus his mussing and 
spoiling it will be prevented. It will entirely obviate the 
objection of dust and seeds falling upon his head and into 
his eyes, or of pulling the hay out and wasting it under his 
feet. 

Some horses are inclined to throw their hay out with 



550 STABLING. 

their noses. This can be effectually prevented by nailing 
two or three bars across the upper part of the crib from the 
back to the front. The hitching ring should be on the oflP 
or farther side, to prevent the strap from being caught by 
the foot. If the horse is a greedy eater, and disposed to 
throw the grain out of the box, it can be prevented by put- 
ting a few round cobbles in the bottom, thus compelling 
him to take his grain slowly. The division between the 
stalls should always be high enough to prevent the horses 
from interfering with each other. If windows are near, 
they should be so high as to prevent any current of air 
from striking directly. 




CHAPTER XIX. 



FEEDING AND WATERING.* 

Hay, corn fodder, oats, and corn constitute the princi- 
pal food of horses in this country. Hay and oats in the 
Northern States, fodder and corn in the South. The food 
should be of the quality and quantity to impart strength, 
vitality, and elasticity; and this requires some discrimina- 
tion and care, as the food should be harmonized both to the 
condition of the horse and the severity of the labor to which 
he is subjected. As a rule, the stomach should not be dis- 
tended with food when prolonged, energetic effort is re- 
quired. This is to be esj)ecially guarded against in the feed- 
ing of hay. Greedy eaters can and often will eat so much 
hay as to unfit themselves for active labor, and it usually 
results in heaves, or broken wind. Heaves are- always 
found in the teamsters' or carters' stables, where there is 
no care in feeding. This disease is never found among rac- 
ing horses, from the fact that the utmost care is used in 
selecting the food, and feeding in small quantities, or in 
adapting it more perfectly to the wants of the system. 

It has been demonstrated beyond doubt that the reason 
horses improve so much in wind by eating prairie hay is, 
that it is so coarse that they cannot eat it fast enough to 
overload the stomach. The quantity of hay should be 
carefully regulated, and never as much given as the horse 

* The main points of this paper were dictated by Dr. Somerville, of Buffalo, 
N. T., to the writer while studying with him, (551) 



552 FEEDINGS AND WATEBING. 

will eat if at all voracious. The majority of owners pack 
a large rack full, either allowing liberty to eat too much, 
or making it unpalatable and unhealthful by being breathed 
upon. From eight to ten pounds is about the average 
quantity for an ordinary roadster to be allowed in twenty- 
four hours, more or less, according to size, the kind of 
work, and the quantity of grain given. Dusty or mouldy 
hay should never be fed, as it is liable to produce various 
forms of disease. 

The food should be clean, and in quality perfect. Hay 
is most perfect when it is about a year old. Horses would 
perhaps prefer it earlier, but it is neither so wholesome nor 
so nutritious, and may cause purging. When it is a year 
old, it should retain much of its green color and agreeable 
smell.* The blades of corn pulled and cured in the sum- 
mer are unquestionably much better than hay. I shoidd 
certainly prefer this kind of fodder to any kind of hay, for 
fine horses. It is strange that it is not prized more highly 
in the North. 

Oats make more muscle than corn. Corn makes fat 
and warmth. Hence, the colder the weather, the more 
corn may be given, and the harder the work, the more oats. 
Oats should be a year old, heavy, dry, and sweet. New 
oats will weigh from ten to fifteen per cent more than old 
ones ; but the difference is ]3rincipally water. New oats 
are said to be more difficult to digest, and when eaten in 
considerable quantity are apt to cause flatulency, or coHc, 
and derangement of the stomach and bowels. The same 
may be said of corn. If not sound and dry, it may be re- 
garded even much more dangerous than oats, and should 
not be fed. Doing so will be at the hazard of the conse- 
quences above mentioned. 

*In packing or stacking haj', salt should be slightly sprinkled through it so 
as to destroy insects. It also aids in preserving it bi-ight, and makes it more pala- 
table and healthy for the horse. 



GEAmS AND EOOTS. 6-53 

The quantity of oats given daily may vary from eight 
to sixteen quarts. If the horse is large, and the work is 
severe, a little more may be given. Corn should be fed in 
the ear, and like oats must be regulated in quantity to the 
size and labor of the animal, from five to twelve good sized 
ears are a feed. I give a larger proportion of feed at night, 
and less in the morning and noon. There is ample time 
for digestion during the night. There is not during the 
day, if the labor is severe. Experience proves that some 
mildly cooling laxative food should be occasionally given. 
A bran mash, made by pouring boiling water on eight or 
ten quarts of wheat bran, covered over until cool and fed 
at night, from one to three times a week, is the finest 
and best. 

Carrots are a good laxative and alterative before frost, 
but are too cold and constipating during cold weather. 
They may be fed in October, November, and December, 
but in the Northern States not later. 

I feed Irish potatoes, from one to three quarts, with the 
usual quantity of grain, from two to three or four times a 
week, and would recommend their use. Feeding a small 
quantity of roots and giving bran mashes, keeps the bowels 
open and the system in a healthy condition. Without them 
constipation is probable, and this is one of the primary 
causes of diarrhoea, colic, or inflammation of the bowels. If 
it is desired to make a horse fat in a short time, feed corn 
meal and shorts, with cut straw, to which add a pint of 
cheap molasses. Nothing like this for recruiting and filling 
up a horse that is out of sorts or poor. 

If the horse is exhausted, or when sufficient time can- 
not be allowed for him to eat and partially digest a full 
meal, he may be greatly refreshed by a draught of warm 
gruel, or, in summer, of cold water containing a small 
quantity of meal. 



554 FEEDING AND WATEKING. 

Cooking the Food. 

My attention was some time ago called to the advantage 
of cooking food for horses. Those who have given the most 
careful study to the principles and best methods of alimen- 
tation, state, first, that well-crushed grain is not only more 
readily masticated, but more easily digested ; second, that 
cooking the food enables the animal to assimilate a far 
larger percentage of the nutrition than from the same 
amount of grain fed in its raw state. The amount of gain 
is claimed to be from 20 to 30 per cent. According to 
report, the Germans have long used cooked feed for their 
army horses, and found it to excel all other kinds of food 
in giving greater strength to the horse, and increasing his 
power of endurance. It is also claimed by the most suc- 
cessful stock-breeders in England and on the Continent, 
that horses and cattle thrive better, and are far healthier, 
when fed on cooked food than when fed on any kind of 
raw food. 

I copy from a circular published by the Chicago Steam 
Cooking Feed Company, some of the advantages of cooked 
food for horses : — 

1st. Many horses are so voracious and eat so rapidly, that they 
do not properly masticate their food, and, in other cases, the grain 
is too hard to be properly masticated. 

2d. It is estimated that more than one-half of the diseases 
which afflict horses, are induced by the use of uncooked food, and 
its bad effects upon the digestive apparatus. 

8d, The hard, flinty covering of I'aw grain can neither be 
properly ground by the teeth, nor is it soluble in the stomach, and 
most of it passes from the stomach undigested. 

4th. All energy expended in attempts to assimilate certain 
parts of raw food, is just so much waste and positive loss. 

Among the advantages of using properly cooked food for 
domestic animals, are the following : — 

1st. Cooked and ground feed is mucn more palatable for the 
animal, and is very easily masticated, 



COOKING THE FOOD. 555 

2d. The hard, dry covering of grain, when it has been wsteamed 
and ground, becomes as nutritious as any part of the grain, and 
adds just so much to its food properties. 

3d. The entire grain is digested, and no portion of it wasted ; 
nor is there any loss in efforts of the stomach to do the work of 
the cook and the grist-mill. 

4th. The loss in feeding raw grain is changed to gain in the 
cooked feed, a smaller quantity of the cooked grain giving a larger 
proportion of animal strength. 

5th. The primary cause of much illness and derangement of 
digestion in animals is removed by the use of properly cooked 
feed. 

It seems to the writer that cooked food is especially 
important to horses having weak digestion, and for old, 
enfeebled horses. 

When a horse is off his feed, by ovex-eating or want of 
proper exercise, the better way is to reduce his usual 
quantity of grain one-half for three or four days or a week, 
when he wiU eat again as well as ever. 

I here give Mr. Bonner's system of feeding : — 

"In the morning at five o'clock in summer, and six o'clock in 
winter, each horse is given two quarts of oats. At nine o'clock 
two quarts more are given, and the same quantity is given again 
■at one o'clock. Before feeding, each horse is given all the water 
he will take, unless he is to be driven, in which case the allowance 
is cut short a little. At five o'clock in the afternoon the allowance 
of hay is given, usually about ten pounds to each horse ; and none 
is given at any other time during the twenty-four hours. At 
nine in the evening each horse is given a warm supper, prepared 
as follows : For the ten horses, twenty quarts of oats are put into a 
large kettle and boiled, after which is added about the same 
quantity of wheat bran by measurement, with the proportion of a 
teaspoonful of salt to each horse. The whole is thoroughly mixed, 
and, when sufficiently cool, each is given his share. If not driven, 
each horse is walked from half an hour to an hour daily, and the 
greatest care is taken not to expose them needlessly for a moment 
without blankets." 

The following is the routine pursued with Dexter : — 

At six every morning, Dexter has all the water he 

wants, and two quarts of oats. After eating, he is 



556 FEEDING AND WATEEES^G. 

" walked " for half an hour or more, then cleaned off, and 
at nine has two quarts more of oats. If no drive is on the 
card for afternoon, he is given a half to three-quarters of 
an hour of gentle exercise. At one o'clock he has oats 
again, as before, limited to two quarts. 

From three to four, he is driven twelve to fifteen 
miles ; after which he is cleaned off and rubbed thoroughly 
dry. 

He has a bare swallow of water on returning from the 
drive, but is allowed free access to his only feed of hay, of 
which he consumes from five to six pounds. 

If the drive has been a particularly sharp one, he is 
treated, as soon as he gets in, to a quart or two of oat-meal 
gruel; and when thoroughly cooled, has half a pail of 
water and three quarts of oats, with two quarts of bran 
moistened with hot water. 

Before any specially hard day's work or trial of his 
speed, his allowance of water is still more reduced. 

It is a very bad practice, and one that should never on 
any condition be permitted, for grooms or teamsters to 
give any kind of medicine, either for tonic or diuretic pur- 
poses. Many a fine horse is completely ruined by ignorant 
grooms and owners, who think they can help nature by 
giving nitre and other strong medicines, that are never 
admissible except in certain emergencies, and then should 
be given only very cautiously. 

I am satisfied that many veterinary practitioners give 
not only too much but too strong medicine, which, though 
of apparent advantage for the present, must ultimately 
result in serious harm to the health of the horse. Clean, 
good food, properly prepared, and given in quantities 
according to the needs of the animal, is safer and better 
than to be giving medicine for every little change of condi- 
tion. 



CAUSES OF TEOTJBLE. 557 

If the horse is out of sorts, over-fed in proportion to his 
work, becomes dainty, or the depurative processes are 
obstructed by the feeding of too much or of two highly 
concentrated food, let up on the grain, and feed more bran 
mashes or green food. 

Old horses that are not feeding well, or are running 
down without apparent cause, should have the teeth care- 
fully examined (see article on The Teeth), as sometimes 
the horse cannot grind his feed. The simplest way of 
making an examination, is to catch the tongue, and, with 
the hand closed, let its under part rest upon the lower jaw^ 
with the end of the thumb forced upward against the roof 
of the mouth. (See illustration of giving ball.) This will 
compel the horse to keep his mouth open, so as to enable 
looking into it or passing the hand far enough back to 
examine the teeth. If they are found to be the cause of 
the trouble, they should be filed down, as directed under 
that head. 

Watering. 

If a large quantity of cold water is taken into the 
stomach while the system is agitated, by the circulation 
being so increased as to open the pores of the skin freely, 
it is liable to chill the stomach and close the pores of the 
skin, and thus excite some one of the common alimentary 
derangements, as colic or inflammation of the bowels, etc- 
Hard water, especially cold well water, is more liable to 
cause mischief in this way than soft water. Hard water 
will affect some horses so much as to almost immediately 
cause the hair to look rough or staring, and derange the 
appetite. Horses that are raised and worked in a country 
where the water is strongly impregnated with lime, are 
troubled with intestinal calculi ; i. e., stone in the bladder. 
Hence soft water should be given, if convenient ; but if 



5S8 FEEDING AND WATEEING, 

well water be given, especially during warm weather, it 
should either have the chill taken off or be given very 
sparingly. 

The best time to water a horse is about half an hour 
before feeding. While driving, the rule should be, little 
and often. None, or only a swallow or two, should be 
given at the close of a drive, until cool. If very warm, the 
horse should be walked moderately where there is not a 
current of air to strike him, from ten to thirty minutes. If 
any danger is then apprehended, the chill should be taken 
off the water if very cold, and given sparingly, or only a 
few swallows at a time. The common custom is to give 
about a half bucketful. The safer course would be to give 
less and repeat. 

The rule for ordinary use should be, to give a smaU 
quantity often during the day, and let the animal pursue 
his journey or labor immediately after. If allowed to 
stand, the system is liable to be chilled, and the absorbents 
closed, which is the common cause of laminitis or founder, 
although this disease may not develop itself until twelve or 
twenty-four hours afterward. Any cause which will chill 
the horse — either cold winds or cold water — will be almost 
sure to produce this disease. 



CHAPTER XX. 




HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 

It is sometimes very important to be able to determine the 
age of a horse ; and as this is indicated most surely by the teeth, 
I have had made, under my special supervision, a large proportion 
of the illustrations here given, which will be found the fullest and 
most complete published in this country. I en- 
countered very serious difficulties in obtaining 
these illustrations, as I found it next to impos- 
sible to give the artist an idea of the changes 
occurring in the teeth and form of the jaw with 
age, but they are as accurate as I could secure. 
I have tried also to make the description so sim- 
ple as to enable any ordinary person to determine 
the age of horses with considerable accuracy, or 
so nearly as to prevent being seriously imposed 
upon. In doing this, I have not hesitated to ap- 
propriate the language of others when adapted to my purpose. 

At first the jaw is small, and to accom- 
modate the position, temporary, or what is 
termed milk-teeth, are grown ; these are 
succeeded by permanent teeth, as the j aws 
become larger and stronger. As the front 
teeth or nippers only are usually studied to 
note the changes which determine the age of 
a horse up to eight years, I will try to give 
such an explanation of them as will serve to 
aid the general reader in catching the points 
of these changes most clearly. 

When the colt is one week old, the two 
central nippers are grown about as here represented. In from 

(559) 



Fig. 308.— One week 
old. 




Fig. 309.— Six weeks. 



560 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 




Fig. 310. — One year old. 



five to six weeks, another incisor will appear on either side of the 
two first, and the mouth will appear something like cut 308. 
At two months they will have reached their 
natural level, and between the second and 
third months, the second pair will have 
overtaken them. They will then begin to 
wear away a little, and the outer edge, 
which was at first somewhat raised and 
sharp, is brought to a level with the inner 
one, and so the mouth continues until some 
time between the sixth and ninth months, 
when another nipper begins to appear on 
each side of the two first, making six above and below, and com- 
pleting the colt's mouth; after which, the only observable difier- 
ence, until between the second and 
third years, is in the wear of these 
teeth. 

These teeth are covered with a pol- 
ished, hard substance, called enamel. 
It spreads over that portion of the teeth 
which appears above the gum ; and no I 
only so, but, as they are to be so much 
employed in nipping the grass, and 
gathering up the animal's food, (and in 
such employment even this hard sub- 
stance must be gradually worn away.) 

a portion of it, as it passes over the up- 
per surface of the teeth, is bent inward, 
and sunk into the body of the teeth, 
and forms a little pit in them. The in- 
side and bottom of this pit being black- 
ened by the food, constitutes the vnark 
of the teeth, by the gradual disap- 
pearance of which, in consequence of 
the wearing down of the edges, we are 
enabled, for several years, to determine 
the age of the horse. 
The colt's nipping teeth are rounded in front, somewhat hollow 




Fig. 311. — Twenty months. 




Fig. 313. — Two years. 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 



161 




Fig. 313.— From 2^ to 3 years. 



toward the mouth, and present at first a cutting surface, with the 
outer edge rising in a slanting direction above the inner edge. 
This, however, soon begins to wear down, until both surfaces are 
level, and the mark, which was 
originally long and narrow, 
becomes shorter, and wider, 
and fainter. At six months 
the four nippei's ai-e beginning 
to wear to a level. Cut 310 
will convey a good idea of the 
appearance of the teeth at 
twelve months. The four mid- 
dle teeth are almost level, and 
the corner ones becoming so. 
The mark in the two middle teeth is wide and faint; in the two 
next teeth it is darker, and longer, and narrower ; and in the cor- 
ner teeth it is darkest, and longest, and narrowest. At the age of 
one year and a half, the maik in the central nippers will be 
much shorter and fainter; that in the other two pairs will have 
undergone considerable change, and all the nippers will be flat. 

At two years this will be more 
plainly marked. Cut 812 is in- 
tended to show the appearance 
of the mouth at this staare. 

Cut 313 is intended to show 
the appearance of the mouth at 
two and a half to three years old. 
The next is intended to show it 
it three and a half years old. 
The two central permanent teeth 
ire growing down, and are larger 
than the others, with two fi-rooves 
in the outer convex surface, and 
the mark is long, narrow, deep, 
and black. Not having yet attained their full growth, they are 
lower than the others. The mark in the two next nippers is 
nearly worn out, and is wearing away in the corner nippers. 

Between three and a half and four years the central nippers 

86 




Fi&. 314.— About 3^4 years. 



562 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 



have attained to neai'ly tlieiv full growth, and the second pair 
will have so far displaced the temporary teeth as to appear through 




Fig. 315.— At 4 to 4^ years. 

Fig. 316.— At 4 years. 

the gums, while the corner ones v/illbe di- 
minished in breadth, worn down, and the 
mark become small and faint. 

At four years the central nippers will be 
fully developed; the sharp edge somewhat 
worn off, and the mark shorter, wider, and 
fainter. The next pair will be up, but they 
will be small, with the mark deep, and ex- 
tending quite across them. 

At four years and a half, or between that 
and five, the corner nippers are shed, and 
the permanent ones begin to appear, some- 
thing like cut 815. The central nippers 
are considerably worn, and the next pair " ' ^ years, 

are commencing to show the marks of usage. The tush has now 
protruded, and is fully a half inch in height; externally it has a 
rounded prominence with a groove or holloAv in the inside. 

At five years the horse's mouth is almost perfect. The corner 
nippers are quite up, with a long, deep, irregular mark on the in- 
side, and the other nippers are showing the effects of increased 
wear. The tush is much grown, the grooves on the inside are al- 
most or quite disappeared, and the outer surface is regularly con- 




HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 



563 




Fig. 318.— At 5 years. 



vex. It is still as concave ■within, and the edge nearly as sharp 
as it was six months before. 

At six years the mark on the central nippers is worn out_ 
In the next pair the mark is 
shorter, broader, and fainter ; 
and in the corner teeth, the 
edges of the enamel are more 
regular, and the surface is ev- 
idently worn. The tush has 
attained its full growth, being 
nearly or quite an inch in 
length; convex outw^ard, con- 
cave within; tending to a 
point, and the extremity some- 
what curved. The horse may 
now be said to have a perfect 
mouth, as all the teeth are 
produced and fully grown. 

At seven years, the mark, in the way in which we have de- 
scribed it, is worn out in the central nippers, and fast wearing 
away in the corner teeth; the tush also is beginning to be altered. 

It is rounded at the point; 
rounded at the edges; still 
round without; and beginning 
to get round inside. 

At eight years the tush is 
rounder in every way; the 
mark is gone from all the bot- 
tom nippers, and it may almost 
be said to.be out of the mouth. 
There is nothing remaining in 
the bottom nippers that can 
afterward clearly show the age 
of the horse. The upper nip- 
pers will give some indications, 
but nothing certain. 
After the age of eight years, there are no points that will ena- 
ble determining age with any degree of accuracy. A horse that 




Fig. 319.— At 6 years. 



664 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 




Fig. 320. — About 7 years. 



is fed on corn will show an older mouth than one that is fed on 
oats and sloppy feed. 

The usual time for determining a horse's age is in May ; but a 

colt may come any time be- 
tween then and fall, so that 
the wearing away of the 
teeth or disappearing of the 
marks or cups may in some 
cases indicate the horse to 
be older or younger than he 
really is. These Cvonditions 
must be taken into consid- 
eration. 

At six years the teeth are 
rather short, flat, or wide, 
and the gums run across 
them horizontally, some- 
thing like cut 324. After 
the eighth year the gums begin to recede from the center, and the 
teeth become longer in appearance. By looking at cut 325, show- 
ing twelve years, we can see that the gum is receded and run to a 
sharp point at the center of the teeth. At twenty years, the teeth 
are considerably narrower and longer, and the gums are drawn 
back sharper. 

By observing the face of the teeth, there will gradually be 
seen a change to the triangular form, which can be best seen and 
described by cuts 330, 331. From the age of fourteen, we see this 
is more noticeable, the middle nippers gradually increasing and 
extending out to the corner ones, as indicated by cut 331. From 
fifteen to eighteen this triangular form becomes laterally contracted, 
so that at about twenty and afterward, the teeth become biangular. 
As before explained, there are great peculiarities in the form of 
the teeth with advanced age. The most common is shown by cut 
332. I include a somewhat rare form shown by extreme age. 
See cut 333. 

Many curious tricks and methods of telling the horse's age 
after eight years old have been shown the writer at various times, 
such as wrinkles about the eyes, and root of the tail, etc., none of 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 



56.: 



which give the idea so correctly as the general appearance of the 
teeth and absorption of the jaws. In young horses the edge of 
the lower jaw is round and full ; as the horse becomes older, this 
edge becomes sharper and thianer. 

The most unique trick shown the writer of telling the age was 
the following : — ■ 

If a o-old ring be attached to a hair pulled from the tail or 





Fig. 322.— At S years. 



Fig. 331. — About 8 years. 



mane of a horse, and suspended directly above 
his head between the ears, it will oscillate, like 
a pendulum, just the number of times the horse 
is years old, then stop and repeat. I have re- 
peatedly made the experiment, and it certainly 
seemed to repeat the age of the horse; but I 
could not feel satisfied that the motion of the 
ring was not in a great measure controlled by 
the involuntary movement of the hand. The 
man who gave the idea made the experiment 
in the presence of the writer with apparent 
success. 

Jockeys frequently resort to cutting down 
the teeth of aged horses, so as to simulate as 
Fig. 323.-At 8 years, ^^^^j^ ^^ possible the appearance of the mouth 

at eight or nine years of age. This was formerly done by sawing 
or filing, but more recently there has been invented, by Dr. 
Dancer, a leading veterinary surgeon of New Jersey, a very in- 




566 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 




genious instrument for chipping off the teeth, so that the front 
nippers can be cut down very quickly and easily by any amateur. 

But the breadth of the teeth 
and other changes of form, as 
explained, will expose the de- 
ception ; also the deep hollow 
and gray hairs about the eyes, 
with the under lip considerably 
pendant. This treatment is 
called "bishoping," from the 
name of the man who intro- 
duced it in England, and is prac- 

vr^ Qo^ AK ^^ ,^ ticed very largely by iockeys 

Fig. 324. — About 6 years old. . "^ ... 

in the larger cities of this coun- 
try, especially in 
New York. 

I wish to call at- 
tention to the fact 
that horses, especially 
those advanced in 
years, are liable to 
have the teeth in 
wearing overlap one 
another, become very 
rough and wound the 
inside of the cheeks, 
or the grinders be- 




FiG. 335.— About 12 years old. 




come irregular 



Fig. 326. — About 30 years old. 



in length 
when they do not come oppo- 
site each other in shutting, or 
the teeth become carious and 
break away when not corres- 
pondingly worn with the 
other, shoots up to a degree to 
penetrate the jaw, causing, 
soreness and inflammation, 
and seriously interfering with 
eatine;. 



DISEASES OF THE TEETH. 



567 



The writer saw a very interesting case of this kind at the 
Columbia Veterinary College, in which the unobstructed tooth 
had seriously penetrated into the upper jaw. In the endeavor to 





Fig. 337. — About 11 years of age. 



Fig. 328.— Mouth of 
the mare at 13 years. 



relievo the pressure of the parts, the animal 
evidently masticated the food wholly upon 
the opposite side of the mouth ; in conse- 
quence of this the teeth on this side were so 
worn down that both upper and lower jaw 
were twisted around more than an inch out 
of line. 

Sometimes caries or ulceration of a tooth 
produces such serious disturbance that there 
may be an enlargement of the parts, growth 
of fungus, or necrosis of the parts. This too 
is much more common than is suspected. 
Prof. Cressy of Hartford called my attention 
to a case in which a back tooth in the lower 
Fig. 329. —Mouth of j aw became ulcerated, causing much enlarge- 

the mare at 13 years. ^^^^^ q£ ^^^ jg^^_ Jj^ ^^.^^ removed the tooth, 

then divided the skin at the lower edge of the jaw, and with a 
di'ill made a hole through the bone. Through this hole he put a 
seton to keep the parts open until a healthy healing process should 
be produced. A strong preparation of carbolic acid was put upon 
the seton and dressed once a day, which jBnally effected a perfect 
cure. 




668 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 




' When the horse, without any apparent cause, is running 
down, munching or eating his food but slowly, especially if thex-e 
is any lateral action of the jaw, examine the mouth carefully to 

see whether there is any 
noticeable cause of trouble 
in the teeth. If rough 
and irregular, they should 
be rasped down. The 
method of doing this is 
now so well understood as 
to scarcely need explana- 
tion. 

The rasping down of all 
irregularities should be 
Fig. 330.— At 14 years old. carefully done, and if there 

is a decayed tooth it should 
be removed by a veterinary 
surgeon who is conversant 
with the simplest and best 
method of doing it. There 
are now regular horse den- 
testry implements in gen- 
eral use for this purpose, 
which can be easily ob- 
tained. If the tooth has 

grown down beyond the 

1 1 p ,^ J.1 • 1 1 11 "Fig. 331. — At 16 yeai-s old. 

level oi the others, it should 

be rasped or sawed off to 
the proper dimensions, 
and carefully watched af- 
terward so as to remove 
any undue growth harm- 
ful to the opposing parts. 
If there is any enlarge- 
ment of either jaw, more 
especially of the upper 
one, with perhaps a run- 
ninaf sore offensive to the 
smell; and if in addition 





Fig. 833.— From 17 to 18 years old. 



DISEASES OF THE TEETH. 



569 



there is offensive matter running from the nostril on that side, the 
trouble may be suspected as arising from a carious tooth, and the 
jaw on that side must be carefully examined. 

It may be asked, "How is it, if the trouble arises from a ca- 
rious tooth, that the mat- 
ter comes from the nos- 
trils ? " 

Answer : By the im- 
prisoned matter forming a 
sinus into the nasal cavity. 
The treatment for all 
such cases is, first, in the 
removing- of the offending 
cause, namely, the tooth 
itself, and also, as far as 
possible, the dead or dis- 
eased parts, and favoring 
a healthy condition of growth by cleaning out the parts with a 
strong solution of carbolic acid, or chloride of lime, or any good 
disenfectant. Next, protect the parts from the lodgement of par- 
ticles of food, by filling with a 
pledget of tow saturated with the 
tincture of myrrh, or any good 
healing astringent, and dress once 
a day. If there is diseased bone, 
or fungus growth, it should be 
treated the same as for other diffi- 
culties of the same kind.* 




Fig. 333.— Extreme age. 




Fig. 334. — Irregular growth of teeth. 



.* Since writing the above, my attention has been called to an article in the 
Journal of Comparative Medicine and Surgerij of April, 1883, by Dr. Eobert Jennings 
of Detroit, Michigan, in which he refers to a large number of cases of this description- 



570 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 




Fig. 335. — The lower incisors are chiefly 

depended upon to indicate the age. 

From their position they have 

received particular names. 

The two middle are 

termed pincers, 

A; those near them on either side, the 

middles, B B; those which complete the 

half circle, the corners, C C. 




Fig. 336. 



-Front and back view of 
an incisor. 





Fig. 337.— a longitudinal 
view of an incisor. 



Fig. 338. — Lateral section of an in- 
cisor ; a, external enamel ; b, central en- 
amel: e, dental star formed bj' newly- 
formed ivory which has filled the cavity 
of the absorbed pulp ; d, primitive ivory. 



HOW TO TELL THE AGE. 



571 




Fig. 339. 

The shape of the incisor 
varies considerably when exam- 
ined in the direction of its 
length. At its free extremity 
it is flattened before and be- 
hind ; further down it becomes 
oval, then round, then triangu- 
lar, and at last flattened at the 
sides, so that if the length of 
an incisor be divided into a 
series of cross-sections, a dia- 
gram will be obtained, showing 
the change of form with ad- 
vanced age. 

This will be indicated more 
particularly by referring to 
other cuts. 




Fig. 340,— Canines, or Tushes 
(the mare has them only 
in a rudimentary 
form) ; A, exter- 
nal face ; B, 
internal 
face. 




.1-^- 




Fig. 341. — Temporary, or 
Milk Teeth. 



572 



CONTRASTS OP CHAEACTEE. 




Fig. 344 — Wild, untamable nature. 



Fig. 346. — A vicious character. 



CONTEASTS OF CHAEACTEE. 



573 




Fig. 347.— a good head. 





Fig. 348. Heads showing no vitality, or action. Fig. 349. 



574 



GOOD POINTS, 




BAD POINTS. 



575 





Fig. 351. 



Fig. 352. 





Fig. 353. 



Fia.354. 



576 



GOOD POINTS. 




BAB POINTS. 



577 





Fig. 356. 



Fig. 357. 





Fig. 858. 



Fig. 359. 



37 



578 



GOOD POINTS. 




BAD POINTS. 



579 





Fig. 361. 



Fig. 362. 




Fig. 363. 




Fig. 364. 



CHAPTER XXI. 



SHOEING.' 



The foot of the horse is composed of two series of parts ; the 
one internal, organized and sensitive ; the other external, formed 
of a horny, organic matter, but possessing no vital property or 
sensibility. 

A. The internal parts are : — 

1. Bones to the number of three ; the 
third phalanx, the lowest portion of 
the framework of the member, which 
is continued on its sides and rear by 
elastic prolongations forming the base 
of the heel, the lateral Jibro-cartilage 
(which gives a longitudinal section of 
the foot) ; the second phalanx, imme- 
diately above the third, with which it 
articulates; and the navicular, shaped 
like a weaver's shuttle, situated be- 
hind the third phalanx, of which it 
forms the complement. These three 
bones together form the articulation 
of the foot. See Figs. 865, 866. 

2. Special ligaments which connect 
per pastern ; e. Lower pastern ; these bones to each other, placed chiefly 
/.. Coffin bone; 5^. Navicular on the sides of the bones. 

8. Tendons, which serve the three- 
fold use of agents for the transmission of motion, of a means of 
fastening the bones, and of organs for suspending the weight of 
the body. These tendons are three in number : an extensor in 
front and two flexors behind ; first, the perforator ; second, the 
perforated. See Figs. 869, 870. 




Fig. 365.— Bones of the foot. 

a. Cannon or Shank; b. Sesa 
amoids; c. Fetlock joint ; d. Up 



* From Outline of Structure of the Foot. 
(580) 



By M. BouLEY. 



SHOEING. 



581 



4. An elastic fibro-cartilaginous process ; the plantar cushion 
attached to the third phalanx, which it complements behind, and 
enlarges the surface by which it takes its bearing on the sole, and 
transmits to the ground the pressure which it supports. It is 
the means of deadening shocks and reactions. 

5. Arteries, veins, and lymphat- 
ics, vessels which contribute to the 
nourishment of the foot, and are 
remarkable by their mimber and 
their flexuous and anastomotic dis- 
position. See Figs. 371, 372, and 
others farther on. 

6. The nerves, the organs of 
sensibility in the foot, also remark- 
able for then- number, 

7. An integumental membrane 
peculiar to the region of the foot, 
and differuig from the general in- 
tegument, or skin, of which it is a 
continuation, by its external ap- 
pearance, its modified structure, 
and its special functions ; thus it 
is this membrane which secretes 
the horny case or hoof, but as- 
sumes a particular appearance ac- 
cording as it is required to secrete 
the anterior and lateral face or 
wall, or the lower face or sole. At 
the height of the second phalanx 
it forms a thick circular pad which, 
released from the horn which hides 
it, displays the form of a rosy mem- 
brane covered with an infinite 
number of little short filaments, 
thick as those of velvet. These 
form the matrix of the horn, and 
are true hair-roots, for the horn is 
nothing but a great quantity of 
threads or hairs attached one to 




Fig. 



of front 



366. — Posterior view 
digital region. 

1. Large metacarpal bone; 2, 3. 
Outer and inner splint bones ; 4, 5. 
Sesamoid bones; 6. Suilraginis; 7, 
8. Tuberosities for insertion of cru- 
cial ligaments; 9. Triangular space 
for insertion of short sesamoid lig- 
ament; 10. Anterior face of suffra- 
ginis; 11, 12. Tuberosities for liga- 
mentary insertion ; 13. Articular de- 
pression separating condyles; 14, 
15. Second phalanx; 16. Scabrous 
surface for ligamentous attachment ; 
17. Smooth surface for gliding of 
deep flexor tendon; 18. Navicular 
bone; 19. Pedal bone; 20. Basilar 
process; 21. Plantar foramen. 



582 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 368.— Deep mus- 
cles on external aspect 
of right anterior limb. 

9. Anterior or great 
extensor of the meta- 
carpus; 10. Ulna; 11. 
Extensor pedis ; 13. Ul- 
naries accessories, or 
Ulna portion of the per- 
forans; 13. Lateral ex- 
tensor of the metacar- 
pus, or extensor sufEra- 
ginls; 14. Oblique ex- 
tensor of the metacar- 
pus; 15. Flexors of the 
foot; 16. Trapezium; 
17. Annular ligament; 
IS. Carpal ligament of 
perforans tendon, 20 ; 
19. perforatus; 21. Ten- 



FiG. 367.— Right fore 
foot of a horse. 

1. Radius; 2. Groove for the an- 
terior extensor of the phalanges; 3. 
Scapholdes; 4. Lunar e; 5. Cunei- 
form; 6. Trapezium; 7. Magnum; 
8. Unciform; 9. Metacarpal; 11. Ses- 
amoid bone; 12. Sutfraginis; 13. Cor- 
onary; 14. Navicular; 15. Pedal; 16. 
Its ala. 




Fig. 368. 

don of anterior extensor of metacar- 
pus ; 22. Small metacarpal bone ; 23. 
Suspensory ligament; 24. Lateral 
band of metacarpo-phalangeal 
sheath; 25. Perforans tendon; 26. 
Branch of the suspensory ligament 
Joining the extensor pedis, 27. 



SHOEING. 



583 



another. It is this pad which secretes the wall of the hoof. Be- 
low the pad the in tegumental membrane presents itself under the- 
form of rosy leaves pressed one against another, and so disposed 
as to facilitate the gliding of the horn which is continually pass- 
ing over it. This leafy 
tissue is called leaves of 
flesh or podophyllous tis- 
sue. The podophyllous 
tissue is continued under 
the foot by a velvety tis- 
sue similar to that of the 
pad, and which secretes 
the sole and the frog. 

B. The external parts 
of the foot, to the num- 
ber of four : the Wall, 
the Sole, the Frog, and 
the Periople, forming 
together a horny box. 
The hoof, the interior 
cavity of which is exact- 
ly fitted to the external 
face of the sub-mural 
membrane, the two 
working one within the 
other, thus completing 
the general structure of 
the foot by furnishing to 
iiz sensitive parts an 
envelope thick, hard, re- 
sisting, yet elastic, incor- 
porated with them and 
protecting them against the violence of bodies with which the 
foot, by the very nature of its functions, is required to be inces- 
santly in contact. See Figs. 376, 377, and others further on. 

The wall is that part of the horny case which forms its front 
and sides, but it does not end, as many may suppose, at the heels ; 
it is folded back and prolonged to a point toward the extremity 
of the frog. These prolongations of the wall are termed the bars, 




Fig. 369. 



-Tendons and Ligaments of 
the fore leg. 



A. Flexor perforatus ; d. Bifurcation of the ses- 
amoldal ligament; y. Continuation forward of 
branch of the sesamoidal ligament ; J3. Contin- 
uation of the flexor perforans — afterwards in- 
serted into the lower side of the ospedis. 



584 



SHOEmG. 




and the angles which they 
form at the heels, the cleft. 
The external surface of the 
wall is glossy, as though var- 
nished ; its internal surface 
IS striated throughout, except 
at the hollowed bevel at its 
upper edge; the strise of the 
external face of the wall 
(horny laminae, keraphyllous 
tissue) are designed to work 
into the fleshy laminse or po- 
dophyllous tissue. The bevel 
at the upper edge of the in- 
ternal face of the wall, hol- 
lowed like a groove, is de- 
signed to receive the pad, and 
is pierced with a number of 
small openings, into which 
penetrate the filaments of the 
pad, which are true hair-cells. 



Fig. 370. 
A. The outside nerve, or that part of it 
where the branch II eommunicates ; B. 
The suspensory ligament ; C. Tlie great lig- 
ament of the back sinew ; D. The two 
bade sinews, or flexor tendons ; E. E. The 
extensor tendon ; F. The cannon or shank 
bone ; G. The splintbone, which is placed 
on each side, rather posteriorlj', ofthe shank 
bone, beginning immediatelj' under the 
knee,and extending tapering downward, 
and terminating at fig. 1 in a sort of bulb ; 
H. The back sinews and their great sus- 
pensory ligament, apparently joined to- 
gether. Tliis, however, is not the case ; it 
incorporates onlj' with tlie perforans ten- 
don, marked fig. 2, and so intimately, that 
tliey form one and the same substance, at 
the part marked by the small letter i. 
The perforatus, marked fig. 3, forms a 
sheatli for the perforans, as already de- 
scribed in the article Strains. 4. The knee 
joint. 5. The fetlock-joint. 



FlO. 370. 



SHOEING. 



585 



The wall or crust, or rather its lower edge, is divided into por- 
tions designated by different names, as explained in Figs. 876 to 
379. 





Fig. 371. Fig. 372. 

Fore leg, with skin removed, showing, veins, arteries, and nerves. 

a, I, Plantar nerve; 0, digital artery; fc, median branch; c, branch of artery; 
d, pre-plantar branch of nerve. 

The sole forms, with the frog and bars, the lov/er surface of 
the horny case ; it is in the form of a crescent, and is surrounded 
by the lower edge of the wall, to which it adheres; its lower sur- 



586 



SHOEING. 



face is concave, rugous, and formed of horn, which continually 
scales off and exfoliates. The upper surface is slightly convex, 
and pierced with an infinite number of little holes, into which 
penetrate the filaments of the velvety tissue or cushion. The ex- 
ternal edge of the sole bears the same names as that of the wall. 

The frog is situated in the 
posterior cleft of the sole be- 
tween the two bars. It is 
formed of a more elastic de- 
scription of horn, resembling 
india-i-ubber, which is secreted 
by a sensitive frog, covered 
with a velvety tissue like that 
which secretes the sole. The 
frog is in the shape of a trian- 
■ gle bent twice in its length and 
cleft in iis base. It presents 
on its lower surface two pro- 
jections bordering three hol- 
lows which are termed lacunae; 
there are a central lacuna, and 
two lateral lacunae. The pro- 
jections and lacunae on the in- 
ferior surface correspond to 
hollows and ridges on the su- 
perior surface. The apex of 
the triangle which constitutes 
the frog, is termed the point 
^ of the frog ; the two ridges, 
separated by the central lacuna, 
the branches of the frog. These 
branches are prolonged behind 
a thin layer of soft and whit- 
ish horn, which after having surmounted the heels under the name 
of glomes, is extended in the form of a thin band which encircles 
the upper part of the wall, and is termed the periople or coro- 
nary band. 

The foot is at once a means of support and source of elasticity ; 
it is at the same time an organ of touch. 




Fig. 373. — Back view of foot with half 
of frog removed, showing perforans ten- 
don as it is united to the bottom of coffin- 
bone. Drawn from Maniliin. 



SHOEING. 



587 



To adapt it to these triple functions, nature has endowed it 
with three properties apparently opposed, biit which are neverthe- 
less here made compatible with each other ; namely, in the first 
place, extreme external hardness, which is found in the envelope of 
horny substance; 

secondly, a certain [ jt C^^TT' ' A \ 
flexibility, ^^^ | 11 \ ) i 
combined result of j' IjV^ ^ 
the physical prop- 
erties of this corti- 
cal envelope and 
of the mechanical 
arrangement o f 
the difierent parts 
of which it is made 
up ; and, thirdly, 
a highly devel- 
oped sensitiveness, 
the result of the 
exquisite organi- 
zation of its integ- 
umentary mem- 
brane. 

But, to make 

good the mjury ^^^ 374.— Side view of the foot with the part of the frog 
mcessantly caused in previous cut removed, now in place, showing 

by wear on the ligaments, etc., under the lateral cartil- 

horny bed which 
clothes it, the foot 
should possess the faculty of reproducing it in a manner so contin- 
uous that the activity of the reconstruction should be exactly pro- 
portioned to the rapidity of the destruction. This is, indeed, what 
actually takes place ; the foot is the seat of a highly important 
secretion — the horny secretion. 

The nutritive functions, also, in the digital region are endowed 
with great activity, indicated especially by the great development 
of its vascular apparatus, the remarkable disposition of which is 
made known to us by anatomy. 




age which has been removed. 
Drawn from Manikin. 



588 



SHOEING. 



Such are, in their entirety, the complex functions of which the 
foot of the horse is the seat. 

As an organ of support, the foot has an essential duty, smce 
it is through it that the entire machine is put in connection with 

the ground, 
while the point 
at which it is 
placed is in fact 
the fulcrum of 
the levers — the 
limbs-on which 
all the locomo- 
tive agencies 
work. 

As an organ 
of elasticity, its 
duty is no less 
important when 
it is considered 
what enormous 
forces, the result 
of the weight of 
the animal com- 
bined with its 
powerful mus- 
cular contrac- 
tions, all bear 

on that apparatus, and that it is the means of neutralizing the con- 
cussions which, without it, would be fatal to the entire mechan- 
ism, and particularly so to the limbs. The elastic apparatus 
furnished by the foot of the horse is very complex, for the greater 
part of the elements of which it is made up are conducive to this 
purpose. 

A. The three phalanges obliquely inclined on the metacarpals 
or metatarsals, and sustained behind by the ligamentary and ten- 
donous apparatus which has been mentioned, constitute an admir- 
able means of neutralizing the weight of the body. At each step 
it is seen to yield and spring back like a bow that is bent and re- 




FlG. 



375. — Foot with lateral cartilage in place, with 
outlines of nerves, ligaments, etc. 
Drawn from Manikin. 



SHOEING. 



58§ 




Fig. 376 



-Lateral view of horse's foot after 
removal of the hoof. 



1. Periople ring, divided by a narrow groove 
from the coronary cushion; 2. which is contin- 
uous with the plantar cushion, and joins the 
vascular laminae ; 3. through the medium of the 
white zone. 



Fig. 877. — Lower face of the 

horse's foot, the hoof 

being removed. 




Fig. 378. 



Fig. 379. 



Two views of hoof with outer portion of the wall removed to show its 
interior. Referred to in the text. 



a. a. Periople, or coronary frog- 
band. 

6. Cavity in the upper part of wall 
for coronary cushion. 

c. Upper, or Inner, surface of 
"bar." 

d. Vertical section of wall. 
d'. The same at the heel. 

e. Horizontal section of ditto. 
/"'. Lateral aspect of a lamina. 



h. Junction of the horny laminae 
with the sole (the "white line"). 

i. Toe-stay at the middle of toe. 

fc. Upper, or inner, surface of the 
horny frog. 

I. Frog-stay. 

m. Cavity corresponding to a 
branch of the frog. 

w. Ditto corresponding to the 
body of the frog. 



)9() 



SHOEING. 



Fig. 




380. — Hoof just removed from 
foot; side view. 



a. Inner face of periople, or coronary frog 
band, with some hairs passing through ; a'. Outer 
surface of same at posterior part of foot ; a". A 
section through the wall to show its thickness ; 
b to c. Quarter of the hoof, from b to the front 
is the outside (or inside) toe; from c to d, the 
outside (or inside) heel ; e. Frog; /. Bevel on up- 
per margin of wall for reception of coronary 
cushion ; (/. Keraphylla, or horny laminae. 



Fig. 381. — Plantar or ground sur- 
face of a hoof ; right foot. 




Foot with outer portion of the wall removed to show its interior. 
Referred to in the text. 



The interval from a to a represents the toe ; from a to b b outside and in 
side quarters ; c. o. Commencement of bars ; d. d. Inflexions of wall at the heels, or 
"buttresses;" e. Laminated lacuna; f.f-f- Sole; g. White line; g. g. Ditto be 
tween the sole and bar ; h. Body of frog ; i. Branch of frog ; k. k. Glomes or heels 
of frog; I. Median lacuna. 



SHOEING. 



591 



arrangement 



leased. But it must be remembered that this 

becomes feebler in proportion to its length ; that is to say, that 

the tendons sustaining the three phalanges become more weighted 




b c d 

Fig. 384. — Horizjntal section of the junction of tho 
wall with the sole of the hoof. 



a. Wall, with its 
h o r n t u b e s ; &. 6. 
Horny laminae pro- 
jecting from the 
wall ; c. c. Horn- 
tubes formed by 
the terminal villi of 
the vascular lami- 
nae, the horn sur- 
rounding them and 
occupying the 
spaces between the 
horny laminae, con- 
stituting the "white 
line;" d. Horny 
sole, with its tubes. 



and fatigued as the lever formed by these phalanges becomes 
longer. 

B. The plantar cushion has duties indicated by its structure 
and position ; it fulfills the ofiice of a buffer on which shocks may 
be spent and extinguished. When subjected to shocks or the 



a. Inner portion 
of the wall with 
the laminse aris- 
ing from it ; &. 
Vascular laminse ; 
c. Horny laminse 
of average length; 
c'. c'. Unusually 
short laminse ; c". 
c". Laniinella on 
the sides of the 
horny laminie ; d. 
Vascular laminEe 
passing between g*. 
two horny ditto ; 
d'. Vascular lami- 
n a passing b e- 
tween three 
horny 1 a m i n se ; 
d". Lateral laml- 
nellse ; e. e. Arte- 
ries of vascular 
laminse which 
have been i n- 
jected. 




d" d' e 

Fig. 385. — Horizontal section of the wall, and horny and 
vascular laminae, to show the junction of the latter 
and the laminelle. 



pressure of weight, it flattens and extends, to resume its form 
when the pressure is removed ; but in its enlargement it presses on 
the cartilages, which yield because of their flexibility and elasticity^ 
and come back to their own shape immediately when the action of 
the plantar cushion ceases. 



502 SHOEING. 

C. The natural hoof is not only flexible, as is affirmed by 
Lafosse, but perfectly elastic, since it recoils on itseK after having 
been lightly opened behind. Open behind by nature — evidently 
with intention, for nature does nothing in vain — when the plantar 
cushion comes to be compressed, and bears upon the lateral cartil- 
ages of the bones of the foot, these cartilages transmit the pressure 
received to the quarters and heels of , the ivall, which yield and 
open slightly, drawing with them in their movement the branches 
of the sole, which itself, pressed also by the plantar cushion, sinks 
a little ; at the same time the frog, in direct contact on its superior 
surface with the plantar cushion, lodged in part in its folds, opens 
them, unfolds them a little, and forces the hranches to open also. 
All these movements are certainly very slight, much less sensible 
than Bracy-Clark affirms, but nevertheless very perceptible, when 
studied on young subjects which have not as yet been shod, and 
in which the diverse functions of the foot are yet complete. The 
older the subject, the more obscure they become. 

It is to these diverse motions of flexion and extension of the 
phalangeal arrangement, the spreading and retraction of the 
plantar cushion and the horny case, that is owing the deadening 
and extinction of the forces transmitted by the limbs, or of the 
shocks of the ground ; and they are the combined result of func- 
tions which it i^s necessary to preserve in their fullest integrity. 

As an organ of touch, the foot of the horse is, in spite of its 
horny envelope, a very delicate organ. This is proved by the 
great number of nerves which anatomy shows to enter into its 
organization, the knowledge which it possesses of the condition of 
the ground over which it moves, and on which it preserves its 
equilibrium at different paces, whatever may be the form of the 
ground, its consistency, its inequalities, or the obstacles with 
which it is strewn. 



SHOEING. 



593 




Fig. 386. 




Fig. 387. 



PLATE I. 

Fig. 1. 

A view of tlie lower extremity of the coronary bone, seen from behind, to show 

the surfaces articulated with the navicular and foot bone. 
A A The surface articulated with the navicular bone. 
B Cavity filled with fat. 
C C The surface articulated with the foot bone. 



Fig. 2. 

A posterior view of the navicular and foot bone, seen from behind in their rela- 
tive situation. 
A A A A Rough surface of the navicular bone, from which the upper ligaments 

take their rise. 
A B Smooth surface corresponding with the cavity in Fig. 1, at B, filled with fat 

38 



594 



SHOEING. 






^■v^* ■'I - «1 '^ 






PLATE II. 



SHOEING. 595 



PLATE II. 

A front view of the bones of the fore feet of a horse 
in their relative position. 

a The pastern bone. 

h The coronary bone. 

c The navicular bone. 

d The foot bone. 

e The point of insertion of the tendon of the extensor 

muscle. 
/ A concavity to give attachment to the ligament which 

unites the foot bone to the coronary bone at g. 
h A continuation of the same -concavity, to which the 

cartilage of the foot bone is attached. 
i i The upper and lower processes of the foot bone. 
k k A groove in the foot bone, which receives a division 

of the main artery, coming round from behind. 
k I A. groove receiving another division of that artery, 

which proceeds round the extreme edges of the foot 

bone. 



596 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 390. 



PLATE III. 



A, Plantar nerve ; B, Median branch ; P, Posterior branch; C, Anterior branch; 
D, Digital artery ; H, Inconstant division given ofE to the cartilaginous bulbs ; I, I, 
Branch to the plantar cushion ; K, Transverse coronary branch ; M, Podophyllous 
branch; O, Pre-plantar branch; Q, Descending ramuscule to the fissures of the pat* 
ilobes ; R, Ramuscules accompanying the digital artery in the plantar fissures ; V, 
Vein whose presence is not constant, and which sometimes accompanies the plantar 
nerve throughout its phalangeal course. 

38 



SHOEI]S"G- 




Fig; 391. 

PLATE ly. 




Fig. 392. 

PLATE IV. 



SHOEING. 599 



PLATE IV. 

A Pastern Bone. 

B Coronary Bone. 

C Navicular bone. 

D Foot bone. 

E Ligament uniting the muscular and foot bone ouer the 

navicular, and inserted on the bottom side of the 

coffin bone. 
F Sensitive or fibrous frog. 
Gr Navicular bone. 

H Tendon of extensor muscle of the coronary bone. 
I Tendon of the extensor muscle of the foot bone. 
K Tendon of flexor muscle of coronary bone. 
L Tendon of flexor muscle of coffin bone. 
M Sheath of last tendon. 
Ligamentous substance, called sensitive frog. 



600 




Fig. 393. 

PLATE Y. 



SHOEING. 



601 




1^ i(/, i)ift"**r ^" 






fc/^ 



i'^>v^ 



•^^ \ 



^ x:r 







Fig. 394. 

PLATE Y. 



602 SHOEING. 



PLATE V. 

Fig. 1. 

A back view of the bones of the I'ove foot iu their rel- 
ative situation. 

A Pastern bone. 

1) Coronary bone. 

C Navicular bone. 

D Foot bone. 

E A cavity, which in the natural state is filled with fat. 

F ¥ The upper surface of the navicular bone, from which 
two ligaments arise, and pass rouiul the lateral de- 
pressions in the coronary bone;, marked G G. 

B B Points of attachment of the ligament which unites 
the navicular bone to the foot bone. 

I I Two grooA^es in which two main trunks of the arter- 
ies are continued into the foot bone. 

K K K The line of insertion of the tendon of the liexor 
muscle. 

Fig. 2. 

A view of the anterior and inferior surfaces of the na- 
vicular bone detached from the other bones. 
A A The {interior surface opposed to the coronary bone. 
B B The inferior surface opposed to the foot bone. 
CCA j)osterior portion of the inferior surface excavated 
for the purpose of giving a firmer attachment to the 
lower ligament 



SHOBINCi. 



603 



V JJiwl\ . "■■"''. 



K^i \ 




604 



SHOEING. 




PLATE VI. 



SHOEING. 605 

PLATE VI. 

A comparative view of the bones of the fore and hind feet. 

Figs. 1 and 2. 

Bones of the fore foot explained in Plate I. 

Fig. 3. 

Coronary bone of the hind foot. 

Fig. 4. 

Foot bone and navicular bone of the hind foot, show- 
ing that the surface of the foot bone, which is artic- 
ulated with the coronary bone, is rather more con- 
cave than that of the fore foot, and the position of 
the navicular bone more upright ; so that the coro- 
nary bone bears more upon the foot bone and less 
upon the -navicular bone. That surface of the na- 
vicular bone (A B) which in the fore foot was 
smooth, appears rough, and the upper ligaments are 
attached to the whole of this surface. 

C C Poirtion of the cartilage of the foot bone ossified, 
which is not natural, but so frequently met with 
that I thought it necessary to notice it, merely by 
giving an outHne of it. See large variety of mor- 
bid specimens in chapters on Navicular Joint Lame- 
ness and Laminites. 



606 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 397. 

PLATE VII. 



"^-^'.^ - 



I / 



/ V 




Fig. 398. 

PLATE VII. 



608 SHOEING. 



PLATE VII. 

A front view of the bones of the fore feet, to show the 
ligaments. 

A The pastern bone. 

B The coronary bone raised from its natural situation, 
to show the upper ligaments of the navicular bone 
at C C, which pass round each side of the coronary 
bone, and are lost upon the anterior surface of the 
pastern bone at D D. 

K The foot bone bent forward, to show the lower liga- 
ments of the navicular bone at F F. 

G The navicular bone. 

11 H Ligaments that unite the coronary bone to the foot 
bone. 

I I The surfaces to which the ligaments H H are at- 
tached. 

K K The tendon of the extensor muscle cut off at its 
attachment to the foot bone. 

L L L The skin turned down to expose the ligaments. 



SHOEmG. 



609 




Fig. 399. 

PLATE yill. 

39 




Fig. 400. 

PLATE VIII. 



SHOEING. 611 



PLATE VIII. 

A posterior view of the bones of the fore foot, to show 
the ligaments of the sesamoid or navicular hone. 

A The pastern bone. 

B The foot bone. 

C The cut end of the tendon of the flexor muscle of the 
coronary bone. 

I) D D D The upper ligaments of the navicular bone, as 
they pass round the sides of the coronary bone. 

E E A thin expansion from the ligaments D D D D cov- 
ering the mass of fat lodged in a cavity in the cor- 
onary bone. 

E P F Attachment of the lower ligament of the navicu- 
lar bone to the foot bone. 

G G The tendon of the flexor muscle cut off at its inser- 
tion into the foot bone. 

B B B The natural surface of the villi continued from 
the true skin. 



G12 











I: 



A 



2. 







Fig. 401. 

PLATE IX. 




Fig. 402. 

PLATE IX. 



614 SHOEING. 



PLATE IX. 

Three views of the cartilages of tlie foot bone of the 
fore foot attached to the bone. 

Fig. 1, 

A view of the inner side of the cartilage. 

Fig. 2. 

;!A. view of the outer side of the cartilage. 
I 
A A The part of the cartilage which terminates by a 

small curve, and oA^er which those parts of the 

hoof are carried Avhich are called the bars. 

A B Those parts of the extremity of the cartilage which 
are connected to the under surface of the foot bone. 

F F F- F Holes for the passage of blood-vessels. 

Fig. 3. 

A view of the cartilage from the sole. 

C C Upper posterior extremities of Fig. 2, A B, the pos- 
terior edo'es of which are connected to the under 
surface of the foot bone at D D by a fatty ligamen- 
tous substance, which serves as a cushion to the 
flexor tendon E E, and is what is commonly called 
a fleshy frog. 




Fig. 403 




PLATE X. 



A side view of the foot, to show the arteries and veins. 
In the sketch the arteries are shaded, and the veins are not. 




Fig. 404. 



PLATE XI. 



A view of the posterior surface of the foot, to show the 
arteries and veins. In the sketch the arteries are shaded, 
the veins are not. 



sHOEme. 



G17 




Fig. 405. 

PLATE XII. 

A view of the iiiider surface of the foot bone, with its 
cartilages and fleshy frog. The skin which immediately 
covered the whole is removed, and exhibited in the next 
Plate. 

A A Cut eds^es of the skin. 




Fig. 406. 



PLATE XIII. 



SHOEING. 



619 




Fig. 407. 

PLATE XIV. 

The under surface of the foot seen in its natural situa- 
tion, the hoof having been removed. 

A A, Continuation of the fibrous structure which cov- 
ers the anterior surface of the foot. 



620 



SHOEING. 




SH0B1N(^. 



621 




Fig. 410. 



An exact drawing of a hoof, on a scale of three-fourths 
size, which was macerated* from the foot of a five-year- 
old horse that was never shod but once. The shoe is ac- 
cording to the author's idea of form, and the nailing, how 
it should be done. 



* The hoof from which the above drawing, and sections of the same following, 
were.made, was as nearly a perfect specimen as could be found. It was secured by 
Prof. McLellan, and by him given to Mr. David Roburg, referred to in another part 
of this chapter, by whom it was highly prized as a model. The writer called upon 
this gentleman, and upon making known his desire to secure the specimen to make 
drawings from, it was cheerfully presented to him for the purpose. The difficulty 
of securing a competent artist to make the drawings required, notwithstanding the 
greatest effort, nearly defeated the accomplishment of this object. One was finally 
obtained for a few hours at a time, until the drawings here given were secured. 

It was the Intention of the writer to give in this part not only a number of illus- 
trations showing different kinds of feet and shoes, but also the changes produced 
by contraction and disease. With this object in view, several visits were made by 
him to the docks at 28th street, New York, where all dead subjects are daily col- 
lected, to make suitable selections. But after weeks of persistent effort he found it 
Impossible to secure a competent artist to make the drawings, and in consequence 
the project had to be given up, but hope to be able to accomplish this at some 
future time. 



622 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 411. 



Showing the exact outlines of the lioof, Fig. 410, with the 
form of adjustment and nailing of shoe as usually done. The 
shoe and nails are too large, and the nails too many in num- 
ber. The shoe set too far back, and the nails driven so high 
and deep as to endanger driving into the quick, the real 
cause of harm being made apparent by reference to Figs. 421 
and 422. The hoof is rasped away so much as to weaken and 
destroy its symmetry ; a common cause, as will be seen, of 
destroying the natural adjustment of good feet, and so weak- 
ening the wall and sole as to produce lameness and contrac- 
tion. 



SHOEIiSlG. 



623 









CI Qi 

Fig. 413. 

Fig. 410, hoof the same size, cut in two, showing 
the thickness of wall, sole, and frog at the center. The 
circular form towards the toe could not be fully brought out 
by the artist, as shown in the hoof, but is an exact re-pro- 
duction of the thickness and proportion of the various parts. 




Fig. 413. — View of the inside of the hoof. Drawn by Mr. Norman, 

one of the leading artists of New York, under the special 

supervision of the writer. 

a Coronary ring ; h Laminated structure ; c The frog ; 
d The sole. 



624 



SHOEING. 





Fig. 414. 

A, Cross section of hoof, Fig. 410, indicated in 412, 
showing the exact thickness of wall, sole, and frog at A. 




Fig. 415. 

B, View of the next section of the wall of the same, 
drawn on an exact scale as indicated in the foregoing 




Fig. 416. 



C, Third cross section of the same, showing the thickness 
of wall, sole, and frog at the points indicated by the same. 



SHOEING. 



625 



\ 




Fig. 417. 



Fig. 418. 



Fig. 419. 



1, 2, 3, show the thickness, of wall and sole full size 
at points indicated. The inner or soft parts of the wall 
(not represented as clearly by the engraver as it should 
be) represents about one-eighth of an inch less in thickness 
than shown in 1 and 2. The outlines of the hard part, as 
originally drawn, being cut away by the engraver, show 
the wall on this account thicker than it should be. No. 3 
was drawn to show the thickness of hard fiber with the 
soft or laminated part omitted, which will give a good idea 
of the small amount of horn there is in an average light 
foot to nail to, and how easy it is to break and weaken it 
seriously by nailing deeply, rasping and cutting away reck- 
lessly, as shown by Fig. 411. The notches between the 
sole and wall indicate the degree to which the soft horn at 
this point had been macerated or dissolved by the action 
of moisture to which the hoof had been subjected for two 
weeks. 



40 



626 



SHOEING. 





Fig. 420. 



Fig. 421. 



Fig. 422. 



Sections of hoof, the first two showing an outline of the 
wall at the points marked, Avith an estimate of the amount 
usually cut away in rasping and Jfitting the foot to the 
s]$'^e. Also showing the liability to drive the nails so 
deep in such cases as to be bent into the quick when 
clinched. The third shows the size of nails and the depth 
they should be driven, in' proper proportion to prevent in- 
jury to the foot. 



SHOEING-. 



627 



Not five horses in a hundred, shod a few years by the system 
in general use, have sound, healthy feet. Contraction and its 
consequences, — corns, 
quarter-cracks, thick- 
ening of lateral car- 
tilages, inflammation 
and ulceration of the 
navicular bone and 
coffin joint, with other 
changes of structure 
that make the horse 
liable to soreness or in- 
curable lameness, are 
the rule ; while horses 
having sound, healthy 
feet, are the excep- 
tions. The loss to the 
people of the country 
from this cause — ig- 
norant, bad shoeing — 
is enormous, aud could, 
except in some serious cases, be entirely prevented or cured by 
good shoeing and proper treatment. 

This being true, it is of the greatest importance, not only as a 
matter of humanity to horses, but economy to owners, that such 
knowledge as will prevent or overcome these serious causes of in- 
jury and loss, be made available; and this, as explained, I have 
made a special effort to do in this chapter. It is idle to assume 
that shoeing-smiths would intentionally spoil or injure the feet; 
that they are not willing to learn or heed the teachings of reason. 
While there are a great many who are unpardonably stupid and 
ignorant, and who, in the blindness of their prejudices, are not 
willing to learn ; yet, as a class, the Avriter never found any peo- 




FiG. 423.- 



-Foot of a five-year old horse that 
had never been shod.* 



* Cuts Nos. 423 to 428 were copied from Bracy Clark's treatise on shoeing, 
published in 1809. No. 438 is an illustration of the foot of a flve-year-old horse 
which had never been shod. The others in the order as placed and explained, 
showing the atrophied, contracted condition of the heels and quarters after shoeing. 
These are followed by drawings from casts of colts' feet made by the author. In 
the part on contraction, the causes and proper treatment will be found explained. 



628 



SHOEING. 




pie more appreciative of special points of interest to them, than 

shoeing-smiths. 

Nor is the fault v/holly to be accounted to the shoer. The 

man who scoops out and 
rasps the foot most per- 
sistently to make it look 
artistic, puts the most 
iron into the shoe, and 
nails it on so firmly that 
it will remain so indefi- 
nitely, and works the 
cheapest, usually gives 
the best satisfaction, the 
owner believing he is get- 
ting the most for his 
money ; the health of the 
foot and the comfort of 
the animal, being a mat- 
ter of secondary consid- 
FiG. 424. — The same after one year's shoeing. 

eration. 

The foot is, next to the eye, 
the most beautiful and per- 
fect in the details of its 
structure. It is in every 
particular the most perfectly 
adapted of any part of the 
body for giving the greatest 
possible strength and elastic- 
ity ; and, if not interfei-ed 
with, is capable of sustaining 
all the strain and wear to 
which it can be reasonably 
subjected. But when exposed 
to causes which bring about 
disease and change of struct- 
ure, there are also involved, to 
a greater or less degree, the 
health and mobility of the 




Fig. 425. 



-The same after three years' 
shoeing. 



SHOEING. 



629 



entire limb. Any one knows that an injury to the toe or any 
part of the foot is liable to cause severe pain and disturbance 
throughout the entire limb. The efFect is the same in the horse's 
foot. This beino- true, we want to learn, if we can, the causes of 
these derangements, and how to prevent as well as overcome them. 
I regard this subject so important as to demand more than 
ordinary care to make it so 
simple and practical in its 
explanations that it can be 
easily understood, as well 
as give such proofs of the 
faults common to the pres- 
ent system of shoeing that 
the necessity for correcting 
them will be apparent.* 
To aid in doing this, I give 
a large variety of illustra- 
tions of the hoof and inter- 
nal parts of the foot, which 
will give a good idea of its 
general structure. Among 
these will be found many 
entirely new illustrations. 
For example, cuts showing 
parts of hoof cut away, and 
different views showing tendons, lateral cartilages, etc. ; also a 
great variety of shoes which have been drawn or copied under 
my special supervision. 

* This chapter, as first written, was limited to simple details ; hut upon reading 
it carefully it became evident to the writer that a more complete and thorough ex- 
planation of the subject was necessary, in order to make it v/orthy of acceptance 
for general reference. He then, as a preliminary step, obtained every work availa- 
ble that had been published during the past hundred years. He also took notes 
from leading experts on the subject of shoeing, particularly from Dr. Hamill, for- 
merly professor of Pathological Shoeing, in Columbia Veterinary College, of New 
York, and one of the most thorough professional students of the foot in the coun- 
try. After re-writing the chapter, it was first submitted to him for revision and 
correction; next, to Hon. Wm. C. Gage, of Battle Creek, Mich., who had been led 
to study the subject in the preparation of a work on Shoeing some years previous. 
Again, to Dr. McLellan, of Bridgeport, Ct., the present professor of Pathological 
Shoeing in the above-named College, and accepted as one of the very highest author- 




FiG. 426. — The same after six years' shoeing. 



680 



.SHOEi:t^G. 




Fig. 427. — Foot of a five-year-old horse that 
had never been shod. 



point which I find the author 
in his anatomical description 
has not made sufficiently strong 
to arrest the attention of the 
reader; namely, the amount of 
blood that passes through the 
foot ; and I would advise the 
reading of the description of the 
circulation of the foot, given in 
the chapter on L a m i n i t i s , or 
Founder. 

Many years ago, in Buffalo, 
N. Y., a well-known veterinary 
surgeon, a man of unexceptional 
skill and experience, told me 
that years ago a man bought 



In addition, at the conclu- 
sion of the chapter will be 
found extracts from a num- 
ber of leading authors, fol- 
lowed by the best anatomical 
description obtainable. This 
course I have thought advis- 
able, for the reason that 
shoers and also most owners 
would be likely to read with 
more care and attention the 
details of such a description, 
after becoming interested in 
first reading the details of 
treatment. 

There is, however, one 




Fm. 428. — The same after one year's 
shoeing with thick shoes. 



ities on the subject. It was afterward read by Mr. David Roburg, of New York, 
who is probably one of the very best expert shoers in the country. The article be- 
ing rather lengthy, it was particularly desired of them to point out any part that 
could be omitted with advantage ; but it was the opinion of all that no part could 
well be dispensed with. Dr. Hamill and Prof. McLellan made some additions, which 
arc noted. The writer was particularly interested in Mr. Roburg's advice on con. 
traction, as he is a special expert on the subject, but he suggested no changes. 



SHOEING. 



631 



out a livery stable in that city, and put all the horses on short 
shoes or tips ; that he believed at the time that the horses would 
be ruined by such treatment, but, to his surprise, they were 
greatly improved ; several of them that had been affected with 
obstinate corns, and which he had been called upon to treat, and 
could do little more than palliate, though for the first few weeks 
they traveled sore, entirely 
recovered ; and that the 
horses of his stable had bet- 
ter condition of feet than 
any in the city. Said he, 
"The whole point of suc- 
cess in the Goodenough 
shoe is, that the iron is so 
soft that it wears down 
rapidly, and lets the feet 
come to the ground." 

These statements were so 
suggestive to the writer 
that they led to his study- 
ing the conditions of shoe- 
ing with more discrimina- 
tion and care. It was no- 
ticed, first, that the feet of 
young horses that had not 
been shod, no matter how driven or worked, except the wearing 
away of the outer rim of the wall, retained a sound, healthy con- 
dition. This being true, why the necessity of thinning out the 
sole, opening up the heels, trimming the frog and other parts, and 
loading down the feet with an amount of iron of such form as to 
be in most cases entirely out of proportion to the proper adjust- 
ment and wear required ? 

The writer was next led to observe that horses shod with the 
most care, according to foregoing principles, — the bottom of the 
foot and frog abundantly cut away and scooped out, the shoe 
filed and fastened on firmly, the whole made artistic by rasping 
down the outer surface of the hoof— had the worse condition of 
feet ; while those shod most carelessly or quickly, barely leveling 
the wall, without regard to sole or frog, and nailing on the shoe 




Fig. 429. 



—Foot of a four-year-old colt that 
had never been shod. 



632 



SHOEING^. 



with, perhaps, a few hurried rakes 




Fig. 430.— Foot of a five-year-old colt that 
had nevei" been shod. 

It will be noticed, first, 
that those having thick shoes 
with high calks, show a 
greater or less degree of curl- 
ing under of the quarters, 
with so much absorption and 
weakening of them as to 
make them more or less sore 
or lame. Or, when the foot 
is fiat, the quarters resting 
upon such largely concave 
surfaces (as shown by sec- 
tional drawings of shoe), the 
foot becomes convex, or the 
frog settles down below the 
bearing of the heels. This 
causes the foot to become so 
weak as to be unable to beai' 
the strain of severe work, 
while those having the shoes 



of the rasp over the clenches 
and lower edge of the wall, 
maintained the best condi- 
tion of health. 

This is particularly notice- 
able in horses that travel on 
ground which allows the feet 
to settle into it, so as to bring 
more or less pressure upon 
the sole and frog. These re- 
sults are more noticeable in 
large cities, especially in New 
York, where there are large 
lines of travel that afibrd am- 
ple opportunity of studying 
the condition of the feet, in 
conjunction with the method 
of paring, and the form and 
weight of the shoe. 




Fig. 



431. — Foot of a three-year-old-eolt 
that had never been shod. 



SHOEING. 



633 



low or worn down, have broader and stronger heels. This will 

bo more noticeable in horses used exclusively on certain lines, that 

wear shoes without 

calks, or those with 

slight elevations around 

the outer edge, which 

soon wear down and 

admit of a reasonably 

close contact of the foot 

with the ground. 

Upon inquiry into 
the mode of adjusting- 
such shoes, it was ascer- 
tained that the invaria- 
ble rule was, simply to 
lower the wall, fit and 
nail on the shoes with- 
out touching sole or 
frog, except to remove 
or scale off any extra 
accumulations. Companies adopting this method all admitted 

that it was not only a great 
saving, but greatly improved 
the condition of the feet.* 

We see there is rarely any 
trouble with the feet, no con- 
traction, quarter-cracks, 




Fig. 432. — Half of hoof removed, showing coro- 
nary ring or cushion from which 
the hoof grows. 




Fig. 433. — Bottom view of the above. 



* I present a series of illustrations 
showing the bad efEects of a few years' 
shoeing with thick shoes which re. 
moved all contact of the sole and 
frog from the ground, the results of 
careful experiments made by Bracy 
Clark, and published in 1809. First, 
of a healthy, natural foot; next, 
showing the degree of contraction 
and change of structure produced in 
the same foot after one, three, and 
six years' shoeing. 



634 



SHOEING. 



corns, or other causes of derangement, until after being shod; 
also that the feet of the Indian ponies, though ridden and driven 




Fig. 434. — Showing the frog-band, or coronary ring. 

in the severest manner, without shoes, on the plains, and horses 
that are worked in sections of country where the attrition is not 

so great as to re- 
quire shoes, such 
as Southern 
Michigan, Illi- 
n6is, Iowa, and 
other parts of 
the South and 
West, retain a 
remarkably 
sound, healthy, 
natural condi- 
FiG. 435.— Model of hoof and shoe, made by writer in 1860. tion.* 




* It is claimed, and not without reason, that the feet of colts are not always in 
a natural, healthy condition ; that they are liable to grow out of shape, thus de- 
stroying their natural adjustment and health, and that it is often necessary to ob- 
viate this by trimming the hoof and properly adjusting a shoe. This tendency is 
sometimes induced by hereditary causes, resulting from bad shoeing, or from bad 
treatment in preventing such healthful freedom and attrition to the feet as would 
keep the horn worn down. The writer's attention was especially called to this 
point when in New York, in 1872, by the invitation of Dr. Bryden, a well-known 
expert in the art of shoeing, to accompany him to witness his treatment of a colt's 
feet which required treatment on account of undue confinement, and hereditary 
tendencies to contraction. 



SHOEING. 



635 



We observe also that the excessive wear is always at the toe, 
and that the heels rarely suffer even on bad roads. Consequently 
the best shoeing for the feet, for all roads and seasons, when in 
a good condition of health, must be such as will permit them to 
be as nearly barefoot as possible, or at least that the posterior part 
is so, yet sustaiuing all the attrition of wear to which they may 
be subjected. This being true, the object, then, of shoeing should 
be to prevent excessive wear, give power, and prevent slipping, 
which necessitates the following conditions: First, the preparation 




Fig. 436. — Side view of a properly proportioned shoe. 

of the foot; second, the weight, form, and fittiug of the shoe; and 
third, nailing to the foot. 

Fii-st, in preparing the foot for the shoe, the aim should be to 
cut away so much of the wall as would be a surplus of growth, 
or so much only as would bring it back to its natural form and 
adjustment. 

Second, the shoe should be in form, so that when on, the ad- 
justment of the foot, or its power to obtain hold or grasp upon the 
ground, will be as nearly as possible what it was before being 
shod, and yet sustain the wear for the time it is intended to be on. 

Third, it should be nailed on firmly, yet so as to break or 
weaken the wall of the hoof as little as possible, and not interfere 
with the freedom of the quarters, or enlargement of the foot as it 
grows. 

Pedestrians who are compelled to study carefully the fitting 



636 



SHOEING. 





and adjustment of shoes, are particular to have them big and 
easy, yet support the foot perfectly in all its parts without altering 
its natural adjustment. The shoe must exert no undue 'pressure 
upon any part, nor be so stiff as to interfere in the least with the 

natural mobility of the 
foot. Even a chance knot 
or seam in the stocking 
would be fatal to these 
conditions; because when 
under great strain it would 
cause chafinr;', which, if not 
arrested, would set up so 
much inflammation as to 
soon induce entire disabil- 
ity. 

Now in shoeing horses, 
we see that the hoof is a 
shoe of another kind, which 
is the exact counterpart of 
the internal parts, and is 
perfectly adapted for the 
protection and support of 
this internal structure. If 
its mobility is impaired, or 
any part of the foot is sub- 
jected to excessive press- 
ure or injury sufficient to 
cause inflammation, the same eflect must follow of producing 
inflammation and alteration of structure, not only of the foot, but 
of the entire limb, which would soon ruin a good horse. 

In the state of nature, the bones of the foot are so nicely 
adjusted and balanced by the ligaments and tendons of the limb, 
that there is no unequal strain brought upon any joint, but each 
assists in supporting the others. But if the heels are raised too 
high, there will be correspondingly increased strain brought upon 
the ligaments supporting the back or front part. In like manner, 
raising or lowering the inner or outer quarter, would produce a 
lateral strain upon the joints and ligaments which must ultimately 
cause serious injury, and cause the foot to grow out of line. 




Fig. 437.— View of foot from which the hoof 

and skin have been removed, showing 

circulation through the arteries 

and veins. 



SHOEING. 



637 



The strain comes perpendicularly from the shoulder to the fet- 
lock, and thence to the ground as it passes along to the pastern 
and foot. These are inclined more or less obliquely forward ; con- 
sequently, the strain or' weight imposed upon the hmb has a con- 
stant tendency to be in- 
creased by the length of 
the foot and its obliquity. 
To prevent this, there are 
two strong tendons, perfo- 
ratus and perforans (see 
cuts 369, 370), which sup- 
port the ankle and main- 
tain its natural angle. 

It is evident that the 
longer and less upright the 
lever, the greater must be 
the strain upon these back 
tendons. If the degree of 
obliquity is made greater 
than is intended by nature 
(which is caused by allow- 
ing the toe and foot to 
grow unnaturally long), 
this result will follow. To 
prevent this, at stated in- 
tervals the shoe must be 
taken off, and the foot cut down to its natural size and adjust- 
ment. On the other hand, if the toe is made too short and the 
heel is raised, the front or flexor tendons will be subjected to in- 
creased strain, and equally liable to produce serious harm. 

A popular writer says : "A shortened point of hoof, with or 
without wrong interference of the heels, alters the degree of 
obliquity of the whole limb, and diminishes the power and possible 
rate of speed of an animal, from the instant such a state of things 
if! begun. One of the first signs of this occurrence in a young 
horse of high cast, is a swelling of the back sinews below the knees, 
and it is that enlargement which attracts attention, and not the 
foot." I give here a variety of illustrations showing the different 
degrees of obliquity, and length from the fetlock to the toe. Fig. 




Fig. 438. — View of foot from which the hoof 
was removed by maceration. 



638 



SHOEING. 



447 shows a good adjustment. Fig. 445 shows the toe too 
long. Fig. 446 shows the toe too short, with fetlock too straight. 






Fig. 439.— Too sbort 
and upright. 



Fig. 440. — Too oblique. 



Fig. 441.— Natural ob- 
liquity of ankle. 



If the heels on a pair of boots are too high, there will not only 
be unnatural strain brought upon the calf of the leg and ankle 






Fig. 442. Fig. 443. Fig. 444. 

Difierent modifications of obliquity and length. 

while walking, which in a short time produces weariness and 
pain, but a sliding or crowding of the foot forward against the toe 
and upper. This condition in a short time would causo a shoulder 



SHOEING. 



6S9 



to form against the foot, and become a cause of soreness and in- 
flammation. On the other hand, should the sole be excessively 
long and stiff, there will 
be correspondingly in- 
creased strain brought upon 
the ankle and great ten- 
don at the heel, causing 
fatigue and injury. Again, 
if the heel is too narrow or 
drawn in too much on one 
side, the surface of resist- 
ance being thereby less- 
ened, it wears down more 
rapidly and runs ovei". 

To remedy this, it is nec- 
essary to make the adjust- 
ment of the shoe to conform 
to the line of bearing of 
the foot ; that is, low heels, 
with broad, elastic sole 




an 




Fig. 446.— Toe too short. 



Fig. 445. — Toe too long. 

increase of the bearing surface 
of that side, and, if necessary, 
a drawing in or narrowing of 
the opposite side sufficient to 
equalize the line of bearing. 
The principle is the same in re- 
storing or preserving the ad- 
justment of the horse's foot ; 
Wi^ consequently properly cutting 
away and leveling the foot, and 
adjusting the shoe to it so that 
the bearing surface will be ex- 
actly the same from the center 
outward on each side, and of 
the right length, requires con- 
siderable skill and judgment. 

Again, the foot is continually 
growing wider and longer, so 
that after being shod, propor- 



640 



SHOEING. 



tionate to the amount of growth or length of time the shoe is on 
there will be corresponding change from the original size and ad- 
justment, making the shoe too small, or drawing it forward under 
the heels, and, as before explained, increasing the strain upon the 
back tendon. To restore this to its natural adjustment, at stated 

intervals of four or six weeks, 
according to the rapidity of 
growth, the shoe must be taken 
off and the wall of the foot cut 
down to its original form, and 
the shoe nailed on ao-ain. 

In its natural condition the 
outer rim or wall of the foot 
comes in contact with the 
ground fii'st; second, the frog 
and oiiter edge of the sole; 
third, the center of the foot and 
spaces between the bai's and 
frog. Now, in putting on the 
shoes, the aim should be to 
keep the adjustment of the feet 
as nearly as possible what it 
was before shoes wei-e put on. 
To show this more clearly, 
three sectional di-awings are made, showing the concavity of the 
foot at different points between the heel and turn of the hoof, and 
the necessaiily great disturbance of this relation by the form of 
shoe usvially put on. Cut A shows the foot at the point of the 
heels as it rests upon the ordinary thick shoe, with calks raising 
the frog and sole so unnaturally high from the ground, that there 
can be no contact of those parts with it necessary for obtaining 
moisture and preserving a condition of health. In addition it 
will be noticed, that in the way shoes are usually fitted, the bear- 
ing surf ace is very much concave, tending to force the quarters 
together. Cut B shows the same, with form and fitting of shoes 
as they should be; cuts C and D show the same at relative dis- 
tances between there and the turn of the foot; D, at the widest 
part, representing a heavy shoe. 

The better to explain some of the causes of contraction and 




Fig. 447. — Foot about as it should be. 



SHOEING. 



641 




Fig. 448. — Foot at point of heel on thick shoes. 




alteration of the structure of the foot by shoeing, the writer 
intended to give a cut of the impression of a natural, unshod foo j 
upon the ground, showing that the outer rim or wall comes first, 
and that when the 
ground is so soft as to 
let the foot settle into 
it, there is a corre- 
spondingly strong 
pressure upward and 
outward upon the 
quarters. To do this, 
when in New York 
City making illustra- 
tions for this work, 
he made three trips 
to Flatbush, to obtain 
casts from colts' feet 
from four to five 
years old, from which 
to make the desired 
drawings. After the 
loss of a week's time, 
and large expense, 
two drawings of such 
impressions were 
made by two of the 
best artists in the city. ' '"• *51— Adjustment at turn of foot. 

But it was finally decided that neither could be engraved so as to 

bring out the idea 
sufl&ciently clear and 
good to be of any spe- 
cial benefit; conse- 
quently it was aban- 
doned. The sectional 
drawings given are 

made from a half -size scale of casts, showing the exact degree of 

concavity at different parts, as given. 

The colt's foot in its natural state, being the most simple and 

41 



Fig. 450. — Adjustment between heel and turn of foot. 





Fig. 452. — An exact drawing from a colt's foot, 

one-half size, showing the natural concavity 

of the sole. 



642 



SHOEING. 



easy to prepare for the shoe, we will consider first. For colts 
requiring to be driven around in hai'ness, tips or thin plates only 
would be sufiicient. In such a case, simply trim ofi" the wall in 
front down to a level with the sole, and adjust to, and nail on 
with about four small nails, a small thin stiip of steel or iron a 

little broader than the 
thickness of the wall. Steel 
would be best, because it 
admits of being made light- 
er, and wears longer. The 
heels and fi'og should not 
be interfered with unless 
one heel is much higher 
than the other, when it 
^should be lowered sufii- 
ciently to restore the proper 
adjustment. The objection 
to tips is that, as the toe is 
"•row in c, the heels are 
wearing, which in time 
would be likely to increase 

the sti-ain upon the flexor 
Fig. 453. — Tip about as it should be adiusted. , -, i -j. ^ 

tendon and its appendages. 

This disproportion of weai- would be more rapid and noticeable 
should the roads be wet and gravelly, as moisture and grit soften 
the horn and ca.use it to break and wear away more rapidly, but 
not so much as may be supposed on paved streets and mud roads. 
The writer saw several horses in New York City that had been 
shod with tips with decided benefit to the health of the feet and 
wathout any apparent disproportion or wearing down of the frog 
and quarters, though the iron was worn down fully a quarter of 
an inch. The parts became, as it were, hardened and polished, • 
thereby resisting the wear almost as much as the iron. If the colt 
or horse is used but moderately, and the roads not very stony, 
tips, if properly fitted and put on, will be found of decided ad- 
vantage. They are necessary in cases where there is a lack of 
nutrition, and an unhealthy and slow growth of horn usually fol- 
lowing laminitis. 

As there has been much discussion among writers in relation 




SHOEING. 643 

to the use of tips, or thin-heeled shoes, and desiring to make this 
explanation as clear and reliable as possible, I requested Dr. Ham- 
ill and Dr. . McLellan, the two best veterinary authorities on 
this subject m this country, to give me a statement of the cases 
for which, in their judgment, tips would or would not be adapted. 
I give herewith the reply of each, and invite the attention of the 
reader to the points made, and the reasons given therefor. Prof. 
Hamill says: — 

"In shoeing the horse's foot, the question of frog pressure is a 
debatable one, owing principally to a universal but mistaken belief 
in uniformity in horses' feet. Every innovation in shoeing for the 
past hundred years has been wrecked on this point, — uniformity. 
No two horses' feet are alike ; no two feet of the same' horse are 
alike. This may sound strange to most people, but it is a fact, that 
they are no more alike than human faces are alike. And why 
should the (so-called) students of the foot insist on treating all 
horses' feet in the same manner, and with the same shoe ? 

" JSTow while I am a firm advocate of frog and sole pressure, and 
have driven my own horses for years over the pavements of New 
York City, with nothing on the feet but what is known as the 
English tip or toe-piece shoe, which gives the foot the entire free- 
dom of all its natural movements, yet I must say it Avould be absurd 
to attempt to shoe every horse in this way. There are any number 
of cases where this system would be injurious to the foot and even 
to the limb. But as the foot, or rather that part of it inclosed 
within the hoof, is the object oftenest under consideration, I shall 
explain briefly how it may - suffer frorn. extreme frog pressure. 
(One point which we should always keep in view is a due propor- 
tion, or equal distribution of the weight in all parts of the hoof, 
and by no other system can the foot be healthy.) 

" Any foot that is thin in its general structure, but more so in 
its vertical position, or from top to bottom, and with the frog full 
at its pyramidal eminence or body, is not a proper foot for frog 
pressure. In such feet the plantar cushion, or what is known as 
the fibrous or fatty frog, is very thin, is easily made weaker by 
absorption through extreme pressure or irritation on the horny 
frog, and therefore offers very little protection to the great flexor 
tendon where is passes under the navicular bone. 

" But I may be asked. How could this in any way cause injury, 
if the navicular joint be perfect, as the tendon requires only a 
slight cushion underneath ? My answer is, that there is a double 
impingement of the tendon, owing to the navicular bone descending 
on the tendon every time weight is thrown on the limb, the proof 
of which is the pain caused by this action on the internal structures 
of the hoof I ask. Where is the shoeing-smith who has not seen 
the agony of a horse while standing on one bare foot on the level 
floor while the other foot is being shod, and the relief which followed 



644 SHOEmG. 

when the shod foot was plaeed on the floor ? I may be told that 
such feet have been previously weakened by bad shoeing and bad 
care, and that a horse which never had been shod would not suffer in 
this way. Those who make such assertions are entirely ignorant 
of the anatomy and physiology of the foot. 

" My answer is, that when a horse first comes to the world he 
has no frog development, and for the first year of his life, while 
walking on a level, can have no frog pressure. It is only animals 
that are raised on low or marshy land that have a great develop- 
ment of frog. Horses belonging to mountainous countries have 
very little frog, and generally narrow or apparently contracted 
feet, Avhich is no evidence of disease. Witness the ass and the 
mule for example ; and I may add that although wide heels are 
generally desirable, they are no evidence in themselves of perfect 
health. I am Avell aware that most thin heels, and generally thin 
feet, have a large frog, but the depth of such a frog is more apparent 
than real, as it will be found on close investigation that the flexor 
tendon and navicular structure are lower or nearer the ground- 
surface in such a foot. Therefore we must discriminate in all cases, 
as one mistake may cause irreparable injury. To be definite, we 
can safely give extra frog and heel pressure in all cases where the 
hoof is deep at the quarters, where there is a tendency toward con- 
traction and atrophy of the frog, where the obliquity of the pastern 
is not too great, and where the feet and limbs are perfectly sound and 
well proportioned. 

" (This latter will narrow the circle more than most people are 
aware of.) No thoughtful man would dare to throw extra weight 
on the sole and frog of a foot that had long suffered with navicular 
disease, however excellent this would be as a preventive. Neither 
should we throw extra weight on the posterior parts of a foot or 
limb where there is any soreness of flexor muscles or tendons, or 
any ligament involved, as it would entail greater tension on the 
parts, while the opposite is what is required, viz., flexion or relaxa- 
tion . 

" I say distinctly, we should only carry frog pressure to the 
extent of bringing into activity all the elastic structures of the foot, 
which increases the circulation of those parts so liable to atrophy, 
and only through the circuiation can we keep up or restore the 
health, vigor, and growth of frog, sole, heels, and quarters of tJie 
horse's foot." 

Prof. McLellan says: — 

" In reference to the use of tips, I give you only an outline. 
They are useful in the case of corns, in quarter-cracks, in thrush, 
in interfering, and in fitting the horse to run at grass. They are 
not applicable to feet that have thin, flat soles, with low heels. 
They are not applicable to heavy work horses with flat feet and 
prominent frogs (such frogs are liable to suffer bruises when so ex- 
posed, the resulting inflammation extending frequently to deeper 



SHOEING. 



645 



and more vital structures). They are not applicable to feet having 
navicular disease. They are not applicable when, in applying them, 
it is necessary to disturb the normal relation of the bones of the 
limb. They will be found particularly useful in strong feet that 
have corns in both heels, and in the case of bad interferers." 





Fig. 454. — Inferior (lower side) 
concaTe surface of shoe. 



I give here illustrations of the 
preparing the foot advised by 
Prof. Williams of the Edinboro 
College. The shoe is concave on 
the ground surface, flat on the 
beariQg surface, and drawn back 
to the thickness of the wall at 
the heels. 

" The calkins and toe pieces 
should be done away with for all 
kinds of horses except those used 
for heavy draft in towns where 
the streets are paved and steep. 
It is urged that all horses required 
to go beyond a walking pace are 
injured by shoes with turned up 
heels and toes. Farm horses and 
those employed on macadamized Fig. 456. 
roads are better without th an with 
toe pieces, although the pace at 
which they are required to go iu 
never faster than a walk. In fact, 
all horses, when possible, should 
be shod with a flat shoe. The 



Fig. 455. — Superior (upper side) surface 
of shoe, bearing on the sole. 

fovm of slioe and method of 




The foot prepared for the 
shoe. The sole, frog, and bars un- 
touched with the knife for two 
years; the natural length 
of toe and depth of 
wall kept in their 
relative positions by the rasp only. 



646 



SHOEING. 



form of the shoe, as shown by the illustration, ought to be so made 
and fitted as to bear upon all parts of the sole and crust that are 
calculated to bear pressure — the sole around the margin of the 
crust for a distance of about half an inch in all parts of the foot 
except at the heels ; i. e., that part of it embraced in the triangle 
between the wall and bar. Here the shoe should rest upon the 
wall, only being made sufficiently narroAV at this part." 

See statements from Lafosse and others at the close of the 
chapter. 

Trimming. 

Before preparing the foot for the shoe, the smith should go in 
front and .. look at it, so as to determine better its adjustment. 




Tio 457. 



Pig. 458. 



Good form of thin-heeled shoes, from models presented by Mr. Goodenough, 
of New York. 

Sometimes the foot may be run over by having one side too high 
or the toe worn off excessively. If it is desired to be particular, 
he should see how the feet are carried in a sharp trot; whether 
too high or too low ; or whether he travels too close, endangering 
interfering or cutting — using the words of a high authority, " to 
see whether there are any traces of brushing or cutting on the 
inner sides of hoofs, fetlocks, or knees." The foot can then be 
taken up, when a look from the heel forward will enable an expe- 
rienced shoer to determine how much and what part is to be cut 



SHOEING. 



647 




Fig. 459. — Location of nail-lioles in an 
ordinai-y flat shoe. 



away to level it to the proper proportion, and the faults, if any, 

that can be modified or corrected. If the horse travels high, the 

shoes must be light ; if low 

and subject to stumbling, 

they may be increased in 

weight a little, and the toe 

somewhat rounded; if lia- 
ble to strike, then set close 

under the wall with ed: 

filed smooth. 

It is not the business t 

the writer to say what m 

struments should be u 1 

for doing this, the buttre&^, 

drawing-knife, or rasp, or 

each alternately; theporat 

is to cut away or remove 

the surplus groAvth in the 

easiest and best manner, 

which depends more upon 

the deftness and ingenuity of the man than upon the use of 

any special means. The but- 
tress, in the hands of a man 
who knows how to use it, can- 
not reasonably be objected to, 
next to which a good sharp 
rasp is advisable. The wall 
should be reduced to nearly or 
quite on a level with the outer 
margin of the sole, providing 
the sole has not been cut away 
too much. As a rule, the less 
taken away from the foot the 
better, except for special rea- 
sons, which will be explained 
hereafter. The bearing sur- 
face of the entire wall should 

be made level, so that an even beariuar surface of the shoe will rest 

upon it fully. The rasp should now be passed around the toe, to 




Fig. 460. 



-An ordinary flat shoe 
nailed on. 



648 



SHOEING. 



cut away the sharp edges and bring it to the size required. Prac- 
tically, this should be little more than rounding off the sharp 
edges of horn to prevent splitting. 

The principle is the same of leveling and preparing the feet of 
horses that have previously been shod. In such cases, to take ofi 

the shoe the best method is, after the 
clenches are cut off, to raise both 
heels slightly with the pincei's, then 
pry forward and across the foot a lit- 
tle, when the nails can be pulled out 
one by one. It is seriously objection- 
able, as generally done, to pull off the 
shoe by force, as the severe wrench- 
ing endangers tearing the hoof and 
straining and injuring the foot. This 
would be especially objectionable if 
the hoof be thin and the horse sensi- 
tive. Next, any stubs or nails should 
be removed. 

While it is simply intended to pare 
down the wall to its natural form, if 
it is thin and weak, growing but lit- 
tle, especially at the heels, where there 
is great difficulty to grow sufficient 
wall for the support of the foot, no 
more should be removed than is bare- 
ly necessary to level it. There should be no interference with sole 
or frog, excepting to chip or cut away the portion of the old horn 
which could not be exfoliated. Frequently the heels are too high, 
or the toe too long; in either case, whatever the excessive accu- 
mulation or growth of horn, it should be cut away until the foot 
is brought back to its natural form and adjustment. Sometimes 
there is excessive accumulation to the amount of half an inch or 
more at the heels, or even of the whole wall of strong, upright 
feet, yet to the ordinary observing shoeing-smith it may not 
appear excessive, because cutting away so much would make the 
foot appear to him to be unnaturally small. Several specimens 
of abnormal growth of feet are given. (Figs. 463, 464 are taken 
from life.) Fig. 461, which was seen by the writer at Fulton 




Fig. 461. — Mobility entirely de- 
stroyed in right foot. 



SHOEIJSTG. 



649 





Ferry, is that of a pony mare driven before a huckster's wagon. 
The right foot was so contracted by this excessive accumulation 
of horn, that its mobility was entirely destroyed. It will be 
noticed that the toe of the shoe is carried forward something like 
a sled crook, to 
enable a rolling A- 

motion upon the 
ground. It was 
pitiable to witness 
the pain and mis- 
ery this poor ani- 
mal exhibited. 
She w-alked with 
a crippled, sensi- 
tive motion, and 
while standing 

would put out one ^i<^- 462.— Showing extreme 
foot, then the oth- ^^^^^ *° ^^'""^ *^^ ^^t^""" 

1 . ,1,1 nal structure has been 

er, but mostly the eompressed and forced 

right one. The upward out of the hoof. 

case could have 
been easily relieved of pain and soreness, by simply cutting down 
the feet, and thoroughly soaking and opening the quarters, as ex- 
plained in treatment for " Contraction. " In Fig. 463 the dotted 
lines represent the point to which the horn should be cut away, 
showing an excess of accumulation of over three inches. 

Figs. 464 and 465 were 
;' ^>s«^ taken from a specimen 

belonging to the Colum- 
bia Veterinary College, of 
New York, loaned to the 
writer by Prof. Walton, 
the House Surgeon, to 
make a drawing from. 
The Professor told the writer that the horse when livinp- was com- 
pelled to walk on the heels, a complete cripple, on account of the 
extreme length of the toes. The original, si^e was estimated to be 
about where the outline runs, the alteration being the result of 
contraction while drying. The exact proportion of the original is 



Fig. 463.— View of right 

foot enlarged. Dotted 

lines showing point to 

which the horn 

should have been cutaway. 




Fig. 464. — Outside view of hoof. 



G50 



SHOEING. 



maintained in all its parts. A reversed view of the same is shown 
by cut 465. The dotted lines show the point to which the hoof 
should be shortened, and the relation of the internal parts to the 
wall and sole. The illustrations heretofore given of the hoof and 
internal parts will give a good idea of the parts generally, and 
how much should be removed. But shoers wishing to study the 
subject more thoroughly, can easily do so by procuring a dead 
foot and letting it remain in water until the parts can be sepa- 
rated; or burying it in stable dung for a short time, when the 
hoof can be easily taken off, showing its exact thickness, and the 




Fig. 465. — Reversed view of Fig. 464. Half size. Degree to which the 
bones are crowded up out of the foot. 

relation it has to the parts within. In any case of paring the 
foot, the principle should be to reduce it from its deformity, what- 
ever it is, to its natural proportion and adjustment. If the frog- 
is hard and bony, it should be cut down so as to come within the 
lower edge of the shoe; for in such a case it would be like any 
other hard, unyielding hody under the heel. But usually the 
frog is small, and seldom requires any attention. 

The authoritieti most common on "Shoeing" are explicit in 
directing that the sole should be well pared out — made, in fact, 
so thin that it V\rill spring to the pressure of the thumb. This is 
so injurious that I regard it necessary, though subjecting me to 
considerable expense and trouble, to give at the conclusion of the 
chapter such proofs as would convince of this, and would ask for 
a careful reading of them. 



SHOEING. 



651 



When a chip of horn cut from the foot falls to the floor, the 
moisture being absorbed from the upper surface quickest by its 






Fig. 466. — Good model uf a concave road-shoe, adapted 
for summer or winter. 

greater exposure to the air, causes it to curl upward, the same as 
a thin, board or shiugle will warp when exposed to the heat of the 
sun. Now, when the sole is trimmed out, as explained, the expos- 
ure of its denuded surface to 
the dry air causes it to lose its 
moisture rapidly, contrart 
and bend upward against tl 
soft parts, making the sc 
more hollow. But parir 
out the sole so excessively th 
it will yield to slight pressui 
will allow the horse to tra\ 
better for the present, and 
is quite natural for one 
believe it so great a benei 
that at each time of shoeii 
it is repeated, regardless 
the fact that the feet will ua 

brought ultimately iuto a con- Fig. 4G7.— Bearing surface of tlie same. 




652 



SHOEIN"G. 




Fig. 468. — Good inodel of road-shoe. 



dition to require a continual j^aring- away, and the horse is hope- 
lessly ruined. Wealthy men in England, who are in the habit 

of riding much, finding 
that a horse will ride 
easier hy having the soles 
pared out thin, requne to 
have it done, not caring if 
it does spoil the horse in a 
short time, as they are 
able to buy others. 

While in conversation 
on this subject with Dr. 
Hamill, before referred to, 
I asked the question: 
"Doctor, what do you 
think of thinning out the 
sole as usually practiced ? " 
His answer was: "It is 
death to the foot, because 
the foot in consequence 
loses its moisture so rapidly that it becomes a direct cause of con- 
traction through the absorption which takes place. This, acting 
on the nutrition of the part, 
may cause various changes, 
etc. Yet there are occasions 
when extreme paring may 
be resorted to with some 
advantage." In explana- 
tion he related the follow- 
ing incident: Some year? 
ago when John H. Cook 
the celebrated equestrian 
came from Paris to per 
form at the New York Cir- 
cus, his horses were consid- 
erably the worse for the long 
passage and close confine- 
ment. Two of them, both 
splendid animals, had their Fig. 469.— Bearing surface of the same. 




SHOEING. 



653 



feet trimmed and shoes reset to enter on rehearsal the next day af- 
ter landing, but they were very stiff and sore, apparently foundered. 
As no other horses could be put to this special act, Cook despaired 
of making a creditable, first-class performance. As there was no 
time for the usual treatment of such cases, he consulted the boss 
hostler, and together they acquainted Dr. Hamill of the difficulty. 
Hamill promised, if they would allow him his own way, to relieve 
the horses immediately, which 
he did by cutting away almost 
the entire sole of the front feet, 
relieving the quarter, in fact, 
cutting the foot until it was 
elastic or yielding in all its in- 
ferior and posterior parts. This 
was death to the foot, as he 
told Cook. The soles were 
protected by leather and tar- 
dressing until recovery took 
place. Although this was an 
extreme mode of treatment, 
Mr. Cook was well pleased at 
the result. I asked him if he 
could not counteract this effect 
of paring by keeping the feet 
wet. He said: "Yes, to a certain extent; that was what he did 
where it was possible." 

In 1869 the Humane Society of Edinburgh, Scotland, offered 
a series of prizes for the best essays on " Shoeing," having in con- 
sideration the comfort and soundness of the horse. About forty 
essays were sent in for competition. The Vice-President, Mr. H. 
S. A. L. Hay, says: "It is gratifying to find so general a concur- 
rence among the writers in their utter condemnation of the com- 
mon but unscientific and irrational practice of paring away the 
sole and frog as a necessary preparation for shoeing " 

For the special benefit of shoers, I think it advisable to include 
here Prof. Gamgee's instructions on paring: — * 

* " Horse-Shoeing and Lameness," London, 1874, by Joseph Gamgee, Vet. Sur., 
Lecturer on the Principles and Practice of Farriery in the new Veterinary College 
of Edinburgh. 




Fig. 470. — Model of shoe for express 
horses, from Prof. Hamill's collec- 
tion in New York. 



654 SHOEING. 

"There is scarcely a horse that comes under our hand to shoe that 
does not I'equire some portion of the hoof to be removed, even though 
it may be so excessively weakened by mismanagement as to require 
several months' conservation i. before due quantity and proportion can be 
produced. Bad management and disproportion of hoof go together, 
and though the latter may bo slight, it requires attention and adjust- 
ment ; all the horn we may remove with a file (not a coarse rasp) will, 
in some cases, amount to no more than would cover the surface of a 
shilling, yet the bearing surface of the foot is thereby both increased 
and greatly improved. It is just, in these cases, when with equal mas- 
tery a shoe is selected and fitted out, so that the surface of both foot 
and shoe are counterparts of each other, and the latter is nailed to its 
place with all possible care, that the animal which reached the shoeing 
forge in torture and unable to walk, leaves it with freedom of action 
and a cheerful countenance. 

"If I be asked. From what part would any hoof require to be 
removed in various degrees in those cases vulgarly termed stumped up 
cases ? I reply that it is impossible to state this here, and nothing but 
an apprenticeship at shoeing, or some such equivalent, can make a man 
reliable for putting into execution details of the kind, where rule helps 
so little ; but generally, if not exclusively, the wall is the part requiring 
adaptation of surface; at the toe it may be projecting, and the edge re- 
quire the file to be passed transversely across it ; or, the toe being too 
short, the columns of the heels on either side may be lowered slightly, 
by holding the foot in the left hand and passing the flat part of the 
file over the bearing surface from behind forward in one, say c itside, 
extremity of near fore, and backward over the inner heel, taking care 
that both heels are level ; the oflf foot, by reversing the action of the 
hand, is treated in the same way. 

" But many men will say. Why not take the horse's foot between 
the legs, as is the custom? Because, where so very little has to be done, 
I want to see how to do it, and I do n't require the greater purchase 
which the firm hold of the foot between my knees gives. I am only 
stating, however, what I do, and how I do it. In the hind feet we see 

and can manage best by taking the foot in the ordinary way 

I then take each foot forward upon my knee, and, having seen exactly 
how much hoof is required to be removed, and from what parts I take 
the rasp, and with either the rough or file surface, according to the 
quantity of hoof to be removed, I pass it vertically, so as to take off" the 
outer edge to the extent required ; then placing the foot between my 
legs, remove the exfoliated sole, and, detaching parts of the frog, the 
first by means of the bufier, raising the loose flakes of horn from the 
front backward by tapping the tool with the hammer, the superfluous 
exfoliations of the frog are then removed with the drawing knife, not 
by paring it at all, or much cutting, but more by raising the flakes with 
the left thumb and finger, and detaching them with the knife. This 
done, the bearing surface of the wall is to be adapted, and, holding the 
foot in the ordinary way, fore or hind, the rasp is passed over the point 
of the wall to reduce it to its proper depth. 

"If the instructions just given be intelligently carried out, the 



SHOEme. 655 

quarters — the surface across the bottom of the foot — will be fairly 
provided for from the extreme ends to the middle, which is commonly 
left flat or hollow and weak ; the shoer will be assisted in avoiding this 
defect by acquiring the habit of glancing down the foot, from heel to 
toe on each side in parallel lines ; his eye will then be able to judge 
whether he has secured the object on which I am laying stress — a full- 
ness in the surface across the center of the foot. The center of the foot 
is the region of the greatest breadth and depth of its arch ; on the pres- 
ervation of its breadth and depth depend the strength of the arch and 
of the foot itself, and the firmness, safety, and power of the horse's 
action. 

" The third class of feet are those in which, by mismanagement, a 
morbid accumulation of hoof places them out of form. Some of these 
are not in this state because they have not been shod at regular inter- 
vals, but because those who shod them have not known their art — how 
to reduce the abundance of horn to due proportion in different parts of 
the lioof. 

"There is a common saying, that in shoeing, 'the shoe should be 
made to fit the foot, and not the foot to fit the shoe.' This hackneyed 
expression, when closely examined, amounts to nonsense. The horse- 
shoer, if he be an artist worthy of the art, is required to know the foot 
so that he can with the greatest possible exactness and extent, econo- 
mize its want of substance and energy ; he must, like the sculptor with 
his clay or marble, bring out the true figure from a mass of deformity. 
That the over-reduced and weak hoofs are the most numerous, is 
granted ; but I have seen numerous bad cases of deformity and lame- 
ness due to the excess of hoi-n in the wrong places. . . . 

" One difference between the English mode of shoeing and that 
adopted in all other countries in the world is, that we hold up the 
horse's foot to work at it. I only incidentally allude to the fact, because 
the origin of our custom is as much hidden by antiquity as the more 
extended mode. It is that of holding the horse's foot and working at it, 
to which I allude, while the continental farrier has the foot held while 
he shoes it. This last is the chief difference which attacts the atten- 
tion of travelers. In using the buttress, the rasp is superseded as well 
as the drawing knife ; the latter altogether, and the former, a small, 
fine rasp, employed only to smooth off the surface of the lower wall, as 
the last act in the process. Together with the buttress, the continental 
shoer uses a tool analagous to that which we formerly employed under 
the name of toeing -hnife ; but a modern continental shoer, if a good 
workman, uses this, which in wrong hands would be very destructive, 
with admirable effect. This foot-rounder — the literal translation of the 
name of the instrument — is a straight steel blade, of about nine inches 
in length by one and a half in breadth, and moderately sharp, by means 
of which the hard margin of the wall of the hoof is cut off by light taps 
of the hammer, while the instrument is held so as to regulate the quan- 
tity to be detached. 

" The plan which I have given, which I adopt with the rasp, of tak- 
ing the foot forward, was founded upon this method ; but when we 
come to those hoofs where overgrowth and disproportion to an indefinite 



656 SHOEING. 

extent prevail, I find that no amount of skill in the application can 
bring the rasp and drawing-knife, with the rest of our tools, up to the 
round pied and buttress of the continental shoer. To produce the same 
effect, we, with equal knowledge of the requirement, take much longer 
time and devote more labor to the work ; while in oi^dinary practice, 
with us, the work is liable to remain undone or be badly done, as a 
rule, it is fairly accomplished on the continent. Take a foot grown to 
one or two inches beyond its normal depth and length, curled over at 
both heels upon itself, the bottom of the column being in an almost 
transverse line with the center of the foot, and a morbid thickness of 
sole and frog impprisoned and bound immovably together — such a foot 
puzzles a workman ; with such a weapon as the rasp and knife, he does 
not know how to begin or proceed with a view to its proper reduction.* 

" In such a case the foreigner lays his foot-rounder transversely, 
with the edge toward one heel or column, about one-fourth of an inch 
from its lower surface, and with two or three taps with the hammer, 
cuts transversely forward from one to two inches; the same thing is 
done with the other column, and then usually, but not always, a gi^eater 
depth is rounded oflT the toe, and a little, if there be abundance, at the 
sides ; all of which can be effected in the space of a minute or two; the 
man then takes the buttress, and in the foreign mode of holding the 
foot, cuts from toe to heel, and when the hard edge of the wall, and 
some of its depth has been removed, that which remains is pared down 
to give the required surface. 

" One advantage, at this point of the operation, I find favorable in 
the continental practice, is that when there are morbid accumulations 
of sole, which come in the way, and are as much foreign and incompat- 
ible with its functions as a snowball at the bottom of the foot, they are 
met and easily broken up by the direction in which the buttress is 
pushed ; whereas, by holdmg the foot ourselves, and working more from 
heel to toe, our instrument slips over the exfoliations of horn which 
have their fixed basis behind, and rise in front as they become ripe for 
being cast off. 

" Having learned these conditions by experience, acquired late, and 
working according to what I was taught in the course of apprenticeship, 
I fairly met the inconvenience by making use of the buffer for breaking 
up the loose, imprisoned sole and exfoliations of the frog ; these parts 
would detach spontaneously after the wall was redxiced to its normal 
proportion, and the local condition would not ensue but for the general 
state and want of motion of the foot ; such motion implies health and 
freedom, in the enjoyment of which sole and frog cast ofi" theii- flakes 
and maintain their proper substance. It might appear that this disen- 
gaged horn, if left unheeded, would fall with time — a plausible theory, 
but incompatible with good practice. Such incumbrance must be got 

* Many intelligent smiths in various parts of this country visited by the writer, 
are in the habit of using the toeing-knife and buttress. If the growth is excessive, 
the wall is chipped ofE as described, and then reduced by the buttress by cutting 
from the heel forward. 



SHOEING. 



657 



rid of, not only before the shoe is put on, but before the pro])er surface 
can be adapted for it." 

The shoe should, in form and size, httle more than cover the 
wall, excepting at the heels, where it should be so much wider 
and longer as to compensate 
for the growth of the foot, 
and be heavy enough to 
sustain the attrition, or 
wear, for the time it is ex- 
pected to be on. But should 
this require an excessive 
thickness, then the bar may 
be made wider, to permit 
more wearing surface. It 
should fit closely all the way 
around to the bearing sur- 
face prepared for its recep- 
tion, so that it may give to 
the crust all the support it 
can receive, and carry out in 
its ground surface, as nearly 
as possible, the form of the 
wall before it was cut away. 




Fig. 



47 1. — Ground surface of the 
Goodenough shoe. 



It is a rule, recognized by the best 
authorities, that the sole should 
not rest upon the shoe, except 
around the toe where the out- 
er edge is left full and nat- 
ural. But if the wall is cut 
down close, and the sole rath- 
er thin (which, as explained 
before, in no case should be 
done except for special patho- 
logical reasons), it is advisa- 
ble, if it comes too near the 
iron, to lower the part coming 
under it. As a rule, the bear- 
ing surface should be level, 
and the ground suiface con- 
FiG. 472.— Bearing surface of the same. cave, or the inner edge of the 

43 




658 



SHOEING. 



ground surface so bevelled off that it will not harbor stones and 
dirt, and be so stiff that it will not b:jnd. 

If the horse is expected to be driven only occasionally, as for 
family use, and upon common dirt roads, the wear will be but 
little, and the shoes should be correspondingly light ; but if much 
travel is required on stony or macadamized roads, the weight 
should be sufficient to sustain such weai-. The addition of a small 
bit of steel, hammered well into the toe, and tempered, would add 





Fig. 473.— Badly fitted. Foot 
trimmed too much. Outer 
edge of wall only, resting 
upon the shoe, which is 
made concave. 



Fig. 474. — The same not cut 

away enough. The shoe, 

though properly fitted, 

is too thick. 



greatly to its durability. It would be much better to make them 
wholly of steel, as they would be very much lighter, equally stiff, 
and less liable to bend. An objection to steel is, especially in 
cities where there are paved streets, that there will be more 
tendency to slip, than by the use of shoes made of iron. (See cuts 
for light-driving shoes.) 

In a condition of health, from the light family driver to the 
heavy draught horse, the principle of shoeing is the same ; the size, 
thickness, and weight only differing so as to adapt to each case, 
with the difference that when exceptional power is necessary, as 
for draft horses, or to prevent slipping, calkins must be used. As 
a rule, nothing more is Avanting, unless necessary for extra wear, 
than just iron enough to protect the outer crust of the foot, and 



SHOEING. 



659 



prevent its breaking. More iron than this becomes extra weight, 
and causes fatigue in carrying, hke thick, heavy-soled shoes or 
clogs. 

It is a question among English authorities whether a shoe 
should be "rounded at the toe" (a practice known as the French 
system) to aid mobility. As shown by Fig. 478, it brings the 
bearing surface in the form of a circle. 

On this point I copy here from Mr. Goodwin's new system of 





Fig. 475. 



Fig. 476. 



As the heel often rests upon the inner edge of shoe, with the bearing surface 
badly concave — a direct cause of contraction and weak heels. 

shoeing. "If we refer," says he, "to the action of the fore leg, it 
will tend to explain some of the advantages to be derived from 
the curved shoe. When a horse is 
about to move, the first indication of 
motion is a bend at the knee, which 
raises the heels, and they become more 
and more elevated, till the toe (which 
is the last part that leaves the ground) 
is suspended for the moment that the 
foot is lifted. The base of the foot, — 
just at its leaving the ground, is al- 
most perpendicular. When the knee fig. 
is bent to its fullest extent, the foot 
is then in the same position, with the 

heels of the shoe pointing upward. If we consider this first part 
of the motion of the limb, we find the movement of the foot very 
nearly describes a semicircle ; and on viewing the form of thejomts 
connected with the action, the necessity for a curve at the toe is 
clearly demonstrated. Again, the form of the shoe worn out, at 




477. — About as the shoe 
should be fitted. 



660 



SHOBmG. 




once shows that it must be more suitable to put on a new one of 
that form, rather than to suffer the action of the leg to be opposed 
until it is worn to that form. 

" The fore legs may be 
considered simply as pillars 
of support, having no pow- 
er of themselves to propel 
the body forward, progres- 
sion being entirely per- 
formed by the hind parts. 
If it were not so, the action 
would be different, as I 
have before observed it to 
be in those horses that have 

Fig. 478.— Model of a French shoe, showing g^^at weights to dl^aw ; and 
average amount of curve. this may be more readily 

observed in any draught horse going up hill. I have offered these 
remarks upon action, in order to bring the reader's attention to 
the curve of the French shoe at the toe. This form of shoe cer- 
tainly harmonizes more with the motion of the fore foot than the 
English shoe does ; it affords a greater surface of bearing at the 
toe than the projecting ridge 
of the straight, ordinary shoe, 
and is much more calculated to 
allow of the motion of the lee' 
and foot ; the labor of the 
muscles is also diminished, and 
the limb being in its natural 
position, the ligaments have 
less imposed upon them ; they 
are more at ease, and conse- 
quently are not so liable to be 
strained." 

A moderate rounding at the toe would seem desirable in all 
cases where there is want of mobility. It is especially desirable 
when the horse is a little stiff or sore, as it enables him to travel 
much easier. This is proved when the mobility of the foot is 
destroyed, and there is necessity for using a rounded shoe to con- 
form with the action. When winter shoes, or calk shoes, must be 




Fig. 479. — French shoe — taken from an 
old ■work. See Navicular Lameness. 



SHOEING. 



661 




Fig. 480. — Shoe too short a: d thick, with nails driveu 
deep, and too far back iu the quarters. 



used, the forward calk may be set well back in the toe, as shown 
by ilkistration. 

The object of nailing should be to hold the shoe firmly to the 
foot without injur- 
ing the wall, and „r«- ^"^ 
leave the foot as in- 
dependent of the re- 
straint of the shoe at 
the quarters as pos- 
sible. The nails 
should be driven 
where there will be 
most secure nail- 
hold; more or less as 
weU as heavier nails 
being necessary, in 
proportion to the 
thickness of the wall, 
weight of the shoe, 
and severity of the 

work. The wall is thickest and strongest at the toe or front, and 
becomes thinner and more flexible toward the quarters and heels, 

especially so at the in- 
ner heels, where it is 
sometimes exceedingly 
thin and flexible. 

By reference to Figs. 
423, 429, it will be 
seen that there is con- 
siderable difference in 
the breadths and form 
of the quarters ; that 
of 423 is most notice- 
able. The end secured 
in this part being nar- 
rower and straighter, 
is supposed to be the 
prevention of interfering or striking ; but the narrowness is com- 
pensated for by the increased height of the wall, for the purpose 














Fig. 481. — Nailing that will do no harm. 



662 



SHOEING. 



of giving more bearing surface to the laminated structure. This 
inner quarter or wall is very much thinner and more elastic, and 
on this account it becomes necessary to give very particular at- 
tention to the adjustment and freedom of the part. 

There has been much speculation during the past few years in 
relation to the cause of this quarter's giving out before the other, as 
nature evidently intended it to stand strain and wear equally 
with other parts. The cause, undoubtedly, is the interference in 
its mobility by bad fitting and nailing. This being true, it is ev- 
ident that the principal nailing should be at the toe and front, 
because there is more horn there to nail to, and less liability to do 
harm by separating and breaking the fibers of the wall. They 





Fig. 4S2. 

Turner. The unilateral method of uailin 
model of h shoe. 

should not extend any farther back into the quarters than is 
barely necessary to give a safe hold of the shoe to the foot. The 
fewer and smaller the nails driven, the better, providing they are 
sufficient to hold the shoe. But much will depend, in doing this, 
on the accuracy of the fitting, thickness of the wall, and weight 
of the shoe. 

If the nails are driven well back on the outer quarter, and 
only round in the toe of the inner side, for the purpose of afibrding 
more freedom to the quarters, it will be found that as the foot 
grows, the shoe will be carried to the outside quarter and toe to 
such an extent that the inner heel of the shoe will be drawn inside 
of the wall at the heel, and rest upon the sole, causing a bruise or 
corn. In addition, so much of the shoe being left unnailed, makes 
it liable to get loose and work under the quarter, which would 
cause a rapid wearing or breaking down of structure. All things 



SHOEING. 



663 




Fig. 484. — Points showing where the 

horn is strongest for tlie driving 

of the nails. 



considered, the best way is to nail back to the turn of the wall 

securely. Or the nailing may be extended a little farther back 

on the outside, and shortened a 

little on the inner side, in any 

case giving both quarters all the 

freedom compatible with security, 

in retaining a firm hold of the 

shoe. As the foot grows, the shoe 

will be brought forward so evenly 

under it as not to do harm. 

For ordinary light shoes, I am 

in the habit of usmg from six to 

seven nails, evenly distributed 

around the front part (something 

like Figs. 457, 459); sometimes 

extending the outer nail a little 

beyond or nearer the quarter than 

the inner one. But if the shoes 

are heavy, and the work hard, as 

for draught liorses, heavier nails, and from seven to eight in num- 
ber, will in most cases be required. A small, thin clip turned up 

at the toe, and one at 
the outer quarter, 
will help greatly in 
holding the shoe firm- 
ly in position ; but 
they should be turned 
up thin, and set well 
out on the edge of the 
shoe. 

But very little of 
the wall should be cut 
away, so as not to 
weaken or injure it ; 
but sufficient to en- 
able bringing the shoe 
to its position. The 

shoes should not be hammered down tight to the wall, but simply 

sufficient to rest easily against it, Next, if the foot is broken, or 




Fig. 485. — The same as it would appear 
with the shoe on. 



664 SHOEING. 

much weakened by old nail-holes, punch the holes where there is 
soundest horn to nail to. A thin shoe will not admit of any full- 
ering, because it weakens the shoe, without giving any special ad- 
vantage in nailing. The stamp form of punching the holes should 
be used ; that is, the hole made larger at the surface and smaller 
at the bottom, so that the nail heads will fit into it exactly. 

The method of driving the nails is next worthy of considera- 
tion. There are two methods ; one, starting the nail rather near 
the outer surface and driving high, called the English method, 
which is practiced very generally in this country ; the other, 
starting the nail deep and bringing out low, known as the French 
method, which leading authorities concede to be the best. If the 
nail is driven very near the surface, it is liable to chip or break 
the horn out, which injures and weakens the wall very much ; 
whfereas driving deep and bringing out low, insures a good hold, 
and the wall will be almost grown out by the next shoeing. Con- 
sequently they should be punched deep over those points where 
the wall is thickest, and less so toward the quarters where it is 
thinnest, or proportionately farther from the outer margin of the 
shoe. 

The common method of fullering all shoes alike, and bringing 
the nails at the same distance from the edge, can be no more 
adapted for all kinds of feet, than can the size of the shoe itself. 
This straight-jacket way of punching all alike, brings the nail-holes 
at the same location at each repetition of shoeing, so that if the 
shoe becomes loose, or is pulled off, this part of the wall is liable to 
be torn off, or so split and broken as to leave only a soft, imperfect 
horn. In resetting such a shoe, it becomes necessary to put it 
farther back under the foot in order to gain secure nail-hold. Not 
only this, but the portion of the protruding wall being cut down 
to the shoe, leaves it deformed and injured to an extent that 
several months' grov/th cannot repair. But if the holes be punched 
over parts that would give a secure hold, the shoe can be nailed on 
sufficiently firm to hold it without doing harm, and thereby pre- 
serve the symmetry of the foot. In such a case it may be neces- 
sary to nail rather close to the heels ; but even this had better be 
done for a short time than risk injury and malformation by the 
method named. 

If by carelessness or otherwise a nail should be driven into the 



SHOEING. 665 

quick, which will be known by the horse's flinching, it should be 
pulled out at once ; or should a horse show soreness, after being 
taken out of the shop, the foot should be examined carefully by 
tapping over the part, and the nail at the point of soreness pulled 
out. (For more details, see treatment for Pricking, Eucking, etc., 
in latter part of this chapter.) 

Clenching down the Nails. 

When the nail is twisted off, the end should be filed down to 
the proper length, and, with the corner of the rasp or little punch, 
cut out the pith or raised part under the clench, and turn down 
lightly but firmly. The common custom is to make a deep notch 
with the corner of the rasp, which extends across the face of the 
hoof from one naU to the other. 

This is so injurious, that it should not be permitted even to the 
smallest degree. No rasping of the outer surface of the wall 
should be allowed, excepting to touch or smooth any roughness of 
the clenches, and to round off the edge of the wall down near the 
shoe. It has been explained under the proper head, that the inner 
surface of the wall is soft and spongy, and that as it approaches 
the outer surface, it becomes hard and bony, and the fibers closer 
and denser, and that over the surface is a sort of skin or thin 
covering of enamel, that prevents too rapid evaporation of moist- 
ure ; and it is necessary to retain intact this strong, fibrous horn, 
as well as thc,u of its outer covering, so as to hold the nails firmly, 
as well as prevent the excessive evaporation of moisture which 
would follow. 

Should the shoe be too short, which is liable to happen, to 
remedy the difficulty it is the common custom to set it back under 
the wall, and rasp the thick, strong wall, extending out over the 
shoe, down to it. Or, should the shoe be too straight or narrow 
for the foot across the points of nailing, to drive the nails so deeply 
as to not only endanger pricking, but to greatly Weaken the wall. 

The excessive rasping not only destroys the strongest part of 
the wall, that best able to retain the nail-holes and support con- 
cussion, but causes a serious internal disease not usually under- 
stood, which shows its cfi'ect in an absorption of the coffin bone 
and other parts beneath. Fig. 486 is a good illustration of this. 



666 



SHOEING. 



The specimen from -which it is drawn, was obtained from Dr. 

Hamill. The small sketch is full size, and shows the exact appear- 
ance of its surface, and 
small points of horn which 
are over a quarter of an 
inch long, extending out 
like pegs. 

It is needless to add that 
this is the result of the most 
inexcusable ignorance, and 
the cause of much harm. 
If there is much wall ex- 
tending out over the shoe, 
it should not be deformed 
by cutting down to it ; the 

edge should simply be 
J^iG. 486. — Showing effects of excessive rasping. , , ^ i i , 

rounded ori and let alone. 




Shoeing the Hind Feet. 

There is usually so little trouble with the hind feet, that it is 
scarcely necessary to give any directions as to their management. 
The horn is thickest at the quarters, and the principal nailing 
should be done there. Sometimes there is a curling under or con- 
tracting of the heels, which may be the cause of more or less 
inflammation, extending to the sheaths of tendons and other parts 
of the leg ; in such a case, if thought advisable, either or both 
quarters can be treated as explained under that head. 

I think it advisable, in this connection, to say a few words 
about pricking, which is more common than many suppose. It is 
not unusual, indeed it is a very common occurrence, to drive the 
nail too near the quick or into it, and thus by a little carelessness 
cause great harm. First, if the nail be driven so as to go to the 
quick, in which case the horse may show it by flinching, it should 
in all cases be pulled out at once, and the hole be left vacant. If 
this is done, no harm will follow. Sometimes the smith, especially 
if he expects to be scolded, will drive the nail down, which in a 
few hours or next day will show itself by making the horse lame ; 
or the nail may be driven so deeply as to go near the soft parts of 
the inner edge, and when the point strikes the hard horn of tliQ 



SHOEING. 667 

outer surface, it may bend inward or press upon and break 
through to the sensible parts. This is called rucking. (See Fig. 
420.) The nail should be pulled out at once. 

Still another cause of harm is what is termed fitting and 
drawing the nails too closely. If the nails are driven rather deep 
and clenched down firmly, they are liable to bend inward and 
press upon the sensible parts. This is called pinching. If present 
when the horse is shod, and it is noticed that the nails are driven 
rather deep for the thickness of the wall, insist upon their being 
driven farther out. 

An ignorant or thoughtless man may claim there is no danger, 
when he is driving the nails much too deep. Should the horse 
show soreness or lameness within three or four days after being- 
shod, especially if he puts the foot forward to ease it, give the 
matter attention at once. First rest the hand lightly upon the 
hoof to discover whether there is any unusual heat, and if so, at 
what point ; next take a light hammer or small stone, and tap 
lightly round over the nails, until the horse flinches, when the 
oflfending nail or nails can be discovered and pulled out. If this 
is done soon after being shod or during the same day, all that may 
be necessary to do is to leave the nail out. 

I have had success by pouring a little callendula into the hole. 
In one case, where there was considerable soreness a few hours 
after being shod, though the horse was quite lame on account of 
the nail being driven too deep, after pulling out the nail, a little cal- 
lendula was poured in, and the shoe again put on, and the horse in 
a few hours was free from lameness. But if he shows lameness in 
a day or so after being shod, cut away the wall from around the 
hole, so as to let out any matter which may have formed. Next 
poultice the foot until the inflammation subsides, then cover the 
hole with a little digestive ointment (which is made by melting- 
together equal parts of tar and hog's lard, and stirring till cool), 
over which put a little tow and put on the shoe. 

More especial directions will be given under the head of 
Pricking, Rucking, Nail in the Foot, etc., in Medical Department. 



668 



SHOEING. 



Contraction. 

I am now entering upon what must be considered as practi- 
cally new ground. There is nothing pul:>lished Ijy any author of 
whom the writer has any knowledge, explaining reliably how to 
cure contraction and quarter-crack. Indeed, the leading veteri- 
nary surgeons of the country seem to be so much at sea in relation 
to accomplishing this, that they do not pretend to give practical 





Fig. 



487. — Front view of sound, 
healthy feet. 



Fig. 488. — Side view of 
sound feet. 



treatment. The treatment herein given is published for the first 
time, and will be found as reliable and effective as it is simple. 

I give illustrations of the usual position assumed by horses suf- 
fering from contraction, as well as appearance of feet and legs gen- 
erally, in Figs. 489, 490, which have been drawn from life. The 
contrast between such conditions and those of health, which are 
also shown, are quite noticeable. By looking at Figs. 414, and 
also 448 to 452, it will be seen that the arches formed by the 
union of the bars and frog near the extreme of the heel, extend 
well upward into the foot. Fig. 493 shows the outline of the hoof 
in its natural condition. Fig. 494 shows the heels somewhat 



SHOsmG. 



669 



drawn together, and a corresponding elevation of the sole. Fig. 
494 shows extreme contraction of the quarters, now perpendicu- 
lar, with the arch of the sole correspondingly acute and elevated. 
The points before referred to, noticed inside the heels in this con- 
dition, are crowded together as well as upward, so that in extreme 
contraction they press upward severely against the great tendon, 
where it passes over the navicular bone. This, in connection with 
the strong upward pressure of the sole against the bottom of the 
coffin-bone, forces the whole internal structure upward, as it were, 





Fig. 489.— The effect of 
contraction and soreness. 



Fig. 490. — A bad case of 
contraction and soreness. 



out of the hoof, thereby seriously interfering with, or obstructing, 
the circulation, as well as locking the whole machinery of the foot. 
Consequently the whole foot is tied and cramped, by such unnat- 
ural pressure upon the soft parts, so that walking, or even stand- 
ing, becomes painful. In this condition the horse will stand first 
upon one foot, then upon the other, or put the worst one forward, 
to ease the pain and pressure upon it. In traveling he will try to 
shield the feet all he can from concussion. 

For over two hundred years there has been great effort made 
to prevent and cure contraction. I give a few illustrations, mamly 
from the French, out of a large number coming into my posses- 



670 



SHOEING. 



sion, used for this purpose during the past one hundred years. 
We see first not only a hinge shoe, but a combination of hinges. 
Next, shoes with chps, by which to spread the heels. The shoes, 
after being fastened on, were spread by screws and other means, 
some of which were quite ingenious in their construction, but not 
of sufficient importance to give them a place here. 

In 1802 Prof. Coleman introduced and patented a convex shoe. 
See Fig, 502. Goodwin soon after introduced a combination of 
this form of shoe with that of the French system of rounding or 




Fig. 491. Fig. 492. 

How a horse stands wlien sore-footed. 

turning up the toe. Bracy Clark, in 1809, devised a shoe with a 
hinge at the toe, with a steel rivet to protect the joint from wear- 
ing, so that the quarters could have freedom to expand. See Fig. 
503. I find also that this form of shoe was devised as long ago as 
the 16th century, by Ceasar Fiaschi, specimens of which are given 
in another part of this chapter. He also gave the "bar," and 
other shoes. But the most recent modification of this form of 
which the writer has any account, was made by a man in New 
Hampshire in 1875. He had a shoe jointed at the toe, with wide 
bar at the heel, so fitted that one edge overlapped the other at the 
center. See Fig. 501. The bars were made of malleable iron, 
about three-eighths of an inch thick, with slight calks at the heels. 



SHOEING. 



671 



1^ 



and riveted together at the toe. On this shoe he claimed to have a 
patent. I was invited to examine the feet of several horses hav- 
ing these shoes on. In some cases 
the bars were separated from an 
eighth to a quarter of an inch, by 
the spreading of the quarters. 
This expansion was partly owing 
to the natural enlargement of the 
quarters by growth, and frog press- 
ure. But the same, or even better, 
results could have been obtained 
by the use of an ordinary thin 
shoe, as this would give the frog 




Fig. 493.- 
sole in 



-Showing the usual arch of 
a healthy foot before 
contraction. 




sole bent upward by partial 
contraction. 



contact with the ground, provided the 
quarters were not unduly restrained 
by excessive nailing. 

The shoe above described would be 
of undoubted advantage on pavements 
or rough roads where the thin shoe 
could not be worn, as it gives necessary 
support to the frog, while protecting 
Fig. 494.— Showing arch of the the foot from the rough pavement ; but, 

as explained elsewhere, the frog will 
not always bear long-continued press- 
ure of this kind without producing harm. 

About twenty years ago, a smith named 
Terrel, in Batavia, N. Y., devised a shoe for 
the cure of contraction, with clips turned up 
at the inner side of each heel, with the for- 
ward part weakened on each side of the toe. 
The foot was simply beveled down, the shoe IJIS^- \ 

fitted to it closely so that the clips rested jjf \ | 

against the quarters at the point of the heels. 

-rf 'n 1 Ml 11 1 1 ±^ Fig. 495. — Showing the 

It was firmly nailed on, well back upon the g^ie bent upward, press- 
quarters on each side, and the quarters reck- 
lessly spread with the tongs. He had very 
strong indorsements from leading horsemen, 
claiming its efiectiveness for curing contrac- 
tion, etc., and doubtless it was successful in curing many cases; 




ing against the ten- 
don and joint in 
center of foot, 
caused by contraction. 



672 



SHORING. 



but in spite of the utmost efforts made to introduce it, it went 
into disuse.* 

But the most striking innovation was that made by a man 





Fig. 496.— Hinge shoe for cure of 

contraction. From a French 

work. 



Fig. 497. — Form of shoe devised for 
preventing contraction. From 
a French work. 



named Dunbar, whose method consisted in cutting away the bars, 

opening the heels, and cutting out the 
sole almost to the quick, then fitting 
the shoes larger, and nailing back to 
the quarters. The principle was, that 
the removal of this horn which tied the 
heels together, enabled the quarters to 
spread and grow wider. While this 
seemed but a crude idea, it was, how- 
ever, so successful in many cases as to 
attract considerable attention, and 
proved an additional step toward the 
key of curing contraction. 

The government gave this man 




Fig. 498.— Shoe used by the 

French for the cure of 

contraction. 



* Passing through this part of the country in 1866, I was persuaded by this 
man to have such a shoe put on one of my horses that was a little lame in one of 
his feet. I cautioned him not to nail the shoe on too firmly, or open it too vio- 
lently (which I could see was his intention to do), as it would be sure to cause seri- 
ous irritation in the foot. But disregarding my wishes, assuming that he knew 
just how to do it, and saying that it would be all right, he put it on in his own way. 
The result was as I had anticipated ; the lameness that followed soon compelled me 
to take it oS. 



SHOEme. 



673 



$25,000 for teaching the secret to the veteruaary surgeons of the 
army. His instructions in explaining his system were as follows : — 

''If the foot is healthy, and of a natural shape, and has been 
shod regularly, no alteration is required, but simply to pare out the 
sole of the foot, removing the bors [bars] entirely, and opening out 
the heels back. The surface of the frog should be trimmed out very 
little, but the sides should never be touched. By removing the 
bors [bars] and opening out the heels, contraction is prevented, and 
the frog retains its natural shape, because all pressure is removed 




Fig. 499. Fig. 500. 

Old forms of shoes used by the French for the cure of contraction. 

from each side. The shoe is now to be fitted and nailed on moder- 
ately tight. 

" The treatment for contraction, briefly speaking, is expansion. 
If the horse is lame, the farrier should shorten the toe, lower the 
foot all around, and open the heels back, until the blood is drawn. 
The sole of the foot should be pared as closely as possible on each 
side of the frog. The frog should be lowered, but the sides should 
not be cut. A groove should be made with _the rasp, just under 
and parallel with the coronet on each side, deep enough to draw 
blood; then, with a fine shoeing-knife cut little notches down from 
the coronet at equal distances across the entire length of the groove. 
These notches should be deep enough to draw blood. This,wjU,l're-. 
lieve the pressure caused by contraction of the cartilages on both ■ 
sides, and allow them to resume their proper shape. 

" The shoe must be very carefully fitted, and have eight nail 
holes, for the reason that, itj is the heel nails that relieve a foot while 
'"""^" '''" ' 43 



674 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 501. — Hinge bar shoe for cure 
of contraction. 



in contraction. It should be so fitted as to project a quarter of an 
inch on cither side of the foot, and so as to sec the nail-holes pro- 
jecting on either side of both outer and inner quarter. This accom- 
plished, the bearing shovild be equal. The nails should be driven 
halfway, first toward the toe, then toward the heel. The higher 
they are di'iven the better, the shoo being fitted so wide there is no 

fear of pricking. The nails toward 
the heels should be driven by al- 
ternate taps on each side, because 
the foot expands on account of be- 
ing pared so thin on either side ot 
the frog. Considerable soi'cness 
will result from this mode of treat- 
ment, which may bo relieved by 
keeping the feet wet, or by poultic- 
ing." 

This principle of treatment was 
well understood long before Dun- 
bar's day, and doubtless was ob- 
tained by him from old authors. 
In relation to the scoring of the 
wall, J. Clark, in his work pub- 
lished in 1782, says: — 

" When, according to the general method, a long shoe with a 
broad web is unfortunately put on, which is made thicker at the 
heel than at the toe, the consequence which commonly ensues is 
that of hindering the expansion of the heel of the foot, which in 
that case soon overcontracts itself This circumstance produces very 
great pain to the foot by occasioning too great a compression of the 
cartilages, and of the blood-vessels by which they arc surrounded. 
To ease these blood-vessels, I have hnown scores made 2)erpendicularly 
all the way down every part of the outward wall with a draioing -knife, 
and the blood taken by a lancet underneath. This is but a partial 
remedy, and frequently a bad one ; for although temporary ease 
may be given to the foot by a process Avhich possiblj^ does diminish 
the power of contraction in the heels, as long as the crust is weak- 
ened by the scores on the wall; jqI as the crust is perpetually renew- 
ing itself, the heel has in a short time a power of becoming still 
stronger and more contracted, after the temporary weakness has 
ceased, which was occasioned by scores. But the worst of all, al- 
though too often practiced in the case, is the cutting away the bars. 
This causes the heels to contract, having no mechanical power to 
open and hold the quarters in place." 

Bracy Clark, in his work published in 1809, in describing some 

of his experiments on contracted feet, says: — 

" The bars were pared away from the frog, the heels, as we were 



SHOEING. 



675 




used to term them, were well opened, the quarters rasped thin, and to 
give it the better chance of expansion, a deep longitudinal channel 
was cut with the drawing- 
knife, down the front of the 
hoof, that it might have no 
resistance to the expansion of 
the sides ; further, to assist 
these measures of dilating the 
heel, they were drawn very 
thin, and the bars as much 
as possible clear froiii the 

sides of the frog 

" In the course of making 
these experiments, a circum- 
stance occurred which gave 
me much satisfaction, for I 
foujid that if the horn of the 
bars or inflexures of the hoof 
were pared away from the 
sides of the frog, it greatly 
contributed to the pleasant- 
ness of his going." — ^pp. 104, 
109. 

-MT ,1 P Fig. 502. — Coleman's convex shoe. 

Many other passages oi 

this description could be included, if desired. Of late years there 
have been many parties traveling through the country, claiming 

to cure contraction and 
all diseases of the feet, by 
sawing into the heel, and 
with the screw or other 
means violently spread- 
ing the quarters apart, 
subjecting the poor ani- 
mal to so much pain and 
torture by the operation 
that frequently he could 
not stand up for many 
days. This was regard-. 
cd as a matter of no con- 
sequence, as the horse 
would soon get over it. 




Fig. 503. — Bracy Clark's hinge shoe. 



The main point was to get all the money they could, and get out. 

Contraction is induced by six different causes, all acting more 

or less upon each other to aggravate the difficulty : 1. Trimming 



676 



SHOEING. 



the frog and sole so as to cause them to lose their moisture. 2. 

The thickness of the shoe, greatly increased by high calks, which 

removes the frog and sole from 
all contact with the ground, 
and prevents them from ob- 
taining moisture from it.* 
3. Bad fitting of the shoes, by 
which means the bearing sur- 
face of the heels is made to 
a greater or less degree con- 
cave, so that when weight is 
thrown upon the limb, the 
heels slide inward. 4. Nail- 
ing back in the quarters so 
that as the feet grow, instead 
of becoming wider as they 
would if free, they are to that 
degree crowded together. 5. 
Allowing the feet to become 
too dry ; because the drier 
and harder they become, the 
more direct is the tendency 
to become small. 6. If from 
any cause inflammation is 




Fig. 504. — Pony that cut his foot seriously 
by calking, causing so much inflamma- 
tion and pain that the foot was 
held up, as represented, for 
several days. 



produced in the foot, it will in a short time perceptibly diminish 
in size. See Figs. 505, 506, showing theefiectof acute or chronic 
inflammation in causing severe and rapid contraction. 

The results of these causes, separately or combined, are suffi- 
cient to ruin even the best of feet in a short time. But all the ef- 
forts heretofore made for the cure of contraction seem to have been 
simply to spread the heels open, which failed of making a cure on 
account of the crude way in which it was done, regardless of 
bringing about a natural condition of circulation, whereby healthy 
tissue could be grown. 

* I would remark here that keeping horses in stalls so narrow that they are 
greatly restricted from moving more than a few feet, and with floor largely inclined 
backward, is not only so exceedingly hard on the feet as to be a cause of fever and 
contraction, but so uncomfortable for the horse, that every humane owner should 
do what he can to remedy the difllculty. Particular reference to this will be found 
under the head of "Stabling." 



SHOEmG. 



677 




Contraction may be divided into three different classes : 1. 
A general compression or drawing in of the wall upon the vascu- 
lar structure. 2. When but one or 
both quarters are drawn in. 3. 
When the heels are curled ra, or 
pushed forward under the foot. 
Hence the prevention and cure of 
contraction must depend upon re- 
moving excess of horn, frog-pressure, 
freedom of the quarters, or, if nec- 
essary, opening them mechanically 
as desired, and upon moisture. Any 
of these conditions lacking, there 
must in serious cases be partial or 
entire failure, no matter what the 
means or methods used. If the feet 
could have conditions that would 
afford natural moisture, and the 

Fig. 505. — The foot after the inflam- 
mation subsided, growing down 
nearly a quarter of an Inch 
larger. 

shoes made so thin that the frog- 
and sole could have reasonable con- 
tact with the ground, the quarters 
so free that they could expand with 
the growth of the feet, there could 
be but little if any contraction. 
We see that in all cases where there 
is reasonable frog pressure, it be- 
comes larger, firmer, and more elas- 
tic ; while raising the frog from con- 
tact, causes it to become small and 
Fig. 506.— The foot drawn in and l^ard, the quarters to draw in, and 
deformed from long-continued in- the whole f oot to diminish more or 

less in size. But if not accustomed 
to pressure, it should be given grad- 
ually, in connection with keeping 
the feet thoroughly softened, so as 




flammation caused by a nail be- 
ing driven into the foot. The 
hoof growing about half an 
inch larger after the in- 
flammation subsided. 



678 



SHOEING. 



not to excite inflammation or soreness. It ■would not do for a 
man accustomed to wearing boots for years to suddenly go bare- 
foot on rough, hard ground. The skin on the feet is so thin that 
they would be made sore, and be liable to serious inflammation. 
In like manner it would not be prudent to bring the heels and 
f i-og of a horse's foot, that has long been accustomed to the protec- 
tion of thick shoes, sud- 
denly to the ground. If 
there is but little contrac- 
on, with fairly good con- 
lition of the feet, all that 
^ill be necessary to do is to 
!vel down the feet, and 
remove any surplus of old 
horn from the sole, put on 
thin-heeled shoes, and keep 
the feet soft by moisture. 
The next simplest and 
best method would be to 
use the convex shoe. After 
leveling and trimming out 
the foot properly, as before 
explained, cut away or 
weaken the arch between the bars and frog sufficiently to allow 
of some elasticity of the quarters, then fit the heels nicely to the 
bearing surface of the shoe. In doing this, care should be taken 
to leave them sufficiently deep to enable matching the bevel of the 
shoe nicely without cutting away or lowering the wall too much. 
No horn should be left projecting inside, as it would form a wall 
against the inner edge of thei shoe, and prevent the heels fi-om 
spreading. Of course no nails should be driven back in the quar- 
ters. As before explained, the frog should gradually be given con- 
tact with the ground. As the quarters are opened, the shoe can 
be taken ofij made larger, and reset, until the foot is reasonably 
expanded, when a level bearing surface may again be used. 

But for anything like a bad condition of contraction, more di- 
rect and positive treatment will be necessary. For example, if 
the foot is badly contracted, the frog small, and sole forced upward 
acutely, the whole internal structure, in fact, locked and tied, as 




Fig. 507. — Bearing surface of convex shoe. 



SHOEING. 



679 



it were, by the severe compression of the wall, three conditions 
are necessary: First, complete elasticity of quarters and sole; sec- 
ond, power to open quarters so as to relieve pressure, and allow 
the sole to settle back to its natural position ; third, gradual frog 
pressure so as to restore a healthy condition of circulation and 
strength of parts. The first important step in the treatment is to 
thoroughly soften the feet. The sim- 
plest way of doing this in the stables 
is by tying two or three thicknesses of 
blanket around the feet and keeping 
them wet for about twenty-four hours ; 
or better, fill two small bags with bran, 
put a foot into each, and tie a string 
loosely around the top of the bag and 
leg above the fetlock. Put each foot 
into a bucket of water, and afterwards 
pour on water to keep wet ; or the 
horse can be made to stand in mud till 
the feet are soft. 

There is usually a large accumula- 
tion of horn, especially at the heel, all 
of which must be removed, and the 
wall leveled down to its proper dimen- 
sions. Next, with the drawing-knife 
pare out the sole ; not enough to make 
it bend to pressure, but more than be- 
yond the removal of the old horn. 
Then with a small knife, which should 
be made expressly for the purpose,* 
weaken the wall between the bars and 
frog, by scraping or cutting out the bottom of the channel, back 
to the point of the heel so much that when pressure is brought 
upon the heels outward, there will be no impediment to their open- 
ing freely at their upper edge. To do this, commence well for- 
ward near the point of the frog, and cut back, following the line 
of the arch carefully. Particular care should be taken not to cut 




Fig. 508. — The shoe as fitted 
before being put on. : 



-Let the blade be made straight, with a cutting edge on both sides. Turn the 
end about a quarter of an inch, temper and grind down to a keen edge. It should 
not cut a channel much more than one-eighth to three-sixteenths of an inch wide. 



680 



SHOEING^. 



so much at any part as to cause bleeding. On this account the 
operator should feel his way cautiously, cutting deeper as he goes 
back. The bar should be cut away to within three-quarters of 
an inch from the point of the heel. No more should be cut away 
from the rest of the bar, or part coming under the clip, than may 
be necessary to give a straight shoulder for it to rest against. 
Both sides must be treated alike. If the part has been cut through 

in the least, it should be pro- 
tected after the shoe is on by 
melting a little rosin and tal- 
low into it, and coverinsf with 
tow. 

By looking at Fig. 413, an 
outline of this arch can be 
seen on the inside. There 
have been many ignorant 
and pretentious quacks, who 
have presumed to weaken the 
heel by sawing in between 
the bars and frog. Only a 
very small point can be 
reached in this way, without 
cutting to the quick. The 
saw cannot be used here at 
all with advantage. The 
point is to weaken the horn at the bottom of the cleft so that it 
will spread freely, and this can be done properly only with the 
cutting knife. The proper flexibility of the heels can be judged 
by a slight pressure with the hand. 

This done, our next object is to remove the compression of the 
wall. To do this, fit to it a rather thin, flat shoe, made of good 
iron. At the heels it should be made a little wider and longer 
than the foot, and the nail-holes punched, as in Fig. 508. Lay on 
the shoe as intended to be nailed, and with a pencil make a mark 
over the inside of the bar at the point of the heel on both sides. 
This done, accurately punch or drill two holes through the iron, 
about three-sixteenths of an inch in diameter. If it can be done, 
it would be better to have the holes beveled on the inside of the 
bar, extending up and back at the point of the heel. Next, take 




Fig. 509. — The shoe when on. 



SHOEIl^G. 



681 



two little pieces of good iron or steel, about three-fourths to seven- 
eighths of an inch long, by about three-sixteenths thick, and 
about five-eighths of an inch v.dde. Cut down the end until it Avill 
fit the hole in the shoe, 
and rivet it, as shown 
uiFig. 508. These are 
now to be warmed and 
bent, and, if necessary, 
filed so as to lie flat 
against both heels, and 
just long enough to 
come a little short of 
touching the soft horn 
above it. Next weaken 
the shoe a little on both 
sides, which may be ex- 
tended over a much 
larger space than shown 
in Fig. 609; or if the 
shoe is not very heavy, 
it may be spread witli- 
out weakening. Reg- 
ulate so as to come a 
little forward of the 
point where the hoof 
begins to draw in. If 
the shoe is thin, the in- 
ner edge should b 
turned up and formed 
into a clip, which, with 
a little care, can be 
filed and fitted. But 
if the shoe is at all thick, it would be somewhat difficult to do 
this; for if the clip is turned up so that the shoe is too large or 
too small, a very tedious, annoying bungle would be the result. 
In addition, it would be difficult to make the clips sufficiently 
long to enable bringing pressure as high up against the wall as it 
will admit, which is a very important point towards opening the 
upper part of the hoof. 




Fig. 510. — Spreaders in position to open tlie lieels. 



682 



SHOEING. 



The method before given, which necessity compelled me to 
devise and adopt, makes this simple and easy to do; and except 
the shoe is so thin as not to admit of punching or drilling, it will 
be found by far the simplest and best method of forming the clips. 
When properly adjusted, nail on carefully. The nails around the 
toe may be larger than those driven in the quarters ; and while 
driven so as to give a good hold, and rather high, if the feet are 

at all sore and tender, great care 
should be taken that the ham- 
mering is not too heavy, nor the 
nails driven deep. The clenches 
should simply be turned down 
lightly. If the hoof extends out 
over the shoe at any point, it 
should be no reason for more 
rasping than merely to round off 
the edges of the horn. Let it 
alone. It is frequently the case 
that one quarter is more con- 
tracted than the other; ia fact, 
it is not unusual to have one 
side of the heel very much drawn 
in, while the other may be very 
little, if any, contracted; so that 
two conditions must be met, namely : first, to open either heel as 
little or much as may be desired, independent of the other. This 
the spreaders (which have been devised and patented by the 
writer) will enable doing in the most perfect manner.* 

However necessary it may be to have this part of the work 
well done, it is, in reality, but a preparatory step for what fol- 
lows. First, if a tongs or screw be used to spread the shoe, the 
pressure being made equal on both sides, the side which is weakest 
must do all the bending — opening that quarter too much without 
affecting the other at all. Another cause of difficulty, is not having 




Fig. 511. — The shoe as nailed on 
to be spread. 



* Simple as these spreaders are, the writer has found it very difficult to have them 
made properly. On this account he has found it necessary to have them made ac- 
cording to an exact pattern, and they -will be furnished at a moderate price to 
those desiring them. 



SHOEING. 



683 



the tongs convenient with which to spread the shoe, and it is put off 
too long; and when finally attempted, done so roughly, or opened so 
much, as to cause violent inflammation and lameness. With the 
spreaders, this difficulty is entirely overcome. 

The method of doing this should be about as follows: First 
measure between the heels of the shoe carefully, by cutting a bit 
of straw or stick the exact length between them, and then esti- 
mate how much each heel will 
bear opening without causing 
soreness. Unless the foot is 
very soft and elastic, it is 
hardly prudent the first time 
to open them- more than a 
quarter or three-eighths of an 
inch. It is well to first open 
the quarter most contracted, 
which, until brought out to 
balance with the other, should 
be opened the most. Then 
measure again and spread the 
opposite side. If opened too 
much, or enough to cause sore- 
ness, a few light taps of the 
hammer against the outside 
will set it back. The feet 
should be kept soft by stopping with flax-seed meal, and tying 
two or three thicknesses of blanket around, and wetting occasion- 
ally. In the course of an hour or two examine the condition of 
the feet carefully. If the horse puts out one foot, or indicates the 
least soreness, the quarters have been opened too much, and they 
must be at once knocked back sufficiently to relieve the undue 
pressure, and kept wet. It is rarely, however, that the spreading 
of a quarter, or even three-eighths of an inch, will at first cause 
any soreness. On the contrary, it always gives relief. Still I 
think it necessary to use care. The horse can be driven or 
worked moderately, if desired. In two or three days the spread- 
ing can be repeated, but now not so much as before, and again in 

three or four days following, and so on at longer intervals. 

^ If the foot has been properly prepared, two points will be 




Fig. 512. — As the shoe appears 
after being spread. 



684 



SHOEING. 



accomplished by this spreading, namely, the severe compression 
upon the vascular structure and coronary ring will be immedi- 
ately relieved, and 
the sole, which in all 
cases of this charac- 
ter has been forced 
up, as shown, to an 
acute angle, will 
straighten and let 
down. To aid this, 
the sole must by par- 
ing be made so flexi- 
ble that, as the foot 
is opened it will set- 
tle down and come 
back to its natural 
condition. The sore- 
ness resulting from 
the compression of 
the parts will be re- 
moved, and a better 
condition of circula- 
tion and nutrition re- 
sult. By this course 
the mobility will not only be restored, the horse travel with more 
freedom and confidence, but as the hoof grows down it will be- 
come thicker and of a better fiber. 

As before explained, to bring about a healthy condition of 
circulation and nutrition, the frog must necessarily be given con- 
tact with the ground to the degree it will bear, which should be 
provided for by the thinness of the shoe. In some simple cases 
nailing the shoe to the heel, as shown in Fig. 511, may be sufficient 
to hold the quarters firmly enough to enable spreading them as 
desired. The objection is that the wall is so thin at the point of 
the heels, that it may be difficult to get a good nail hold without 
pricking or breaking out; besides, the naUiag cannot be repeated. 
The nails should be small and driven very carefully, getting as 
much hold as the horn will admit of. The supposed objection to 
this plan of opening the quarters is, that it prevents their natural 




Fig. 513. — Badly contracted foot. The lines B show 

the degree to which the foot can be 

safely spread. 



SHOEING. 



685 




elasticity by their undue confinement. But this is not a vahd 
objection; because in the direction it is desired to give them free- 
dom outward, it only facilitates it, while at the same time it gives 
a certainty and positive- 
ness of relief that cannot 
well be secured in any 
other way. 

Curling Under of the 
Heel. — This has heretofore 
been an extremely difficult 
form of contraction to over- 
come, but by the treatment 
given is not at all difficult 
to manage, because it gives 
the power to force the 
quarters back in place to 
any degree desired. It 
simply requires a little 
more care in making the 
adjustment. As this form 
of contraction is mostly 
common to heavy team 

horses in large cities (though not uncommon now among road- 
sters), and directly the cause of ruining a large number of the 
finest horses, I will include some additional explanations on its 
treatment. Usually the foot is broad and healthy-looking, till at 
the back of the turn of the wall, from which pouit the heels are 
turned under, and drawn to almost a sharp point, entirely closing 
the commissuers. The wall is thin and weak, growing very 
slowly, with frog extremely small and hard. This form of con- 
traction is mostly caused by wearing thick shoes with the bearing 
surface so formed that the heels rest upon sharply concave sur- 
faces, which tends to crowd or force them together; also by ex- 
cessive paring and want of moisture. 

The writer visited several shops to note the details of shoeing 
such horses, and with a view of getting exact illustrations of the 
average of such shoes. The frog, sole, and bars were cut down 
excessively — the sole so that it would bend to the pressure of the 
thumb, — and the bearing surface of the heels so scooped out, that 



Fig. 514. — Draught or express shoe. 
from Dr. Hamill's collection. 



Model 



686 SHOEING. 

only a very narrow edge of the outer wall gave a iDearing surface. 
In addition to this senseless, bad treatment, which will destroy 
the health of any good foot in a"short time,[it was noticed that the 
form and fitting of the shoe were equally bad; so that it was not 
difficult to understand wh};- naturally good feet were soon ruined 
by such shoeing. Next, it was noticed that the seating extended 
clear out to the nail -holes, leaving but a comparatively narrow 
edge for the wall to rest upon. A number of average shoes were 
obtained and photographed for the purpose of explaining the cause 
of such bad effects : but it was found upon trial that it was impos- 




FiG. 515. — The shoe as drawn. 

sible to bring out the defects sufficiently plain to be of any ac- 
count, and as the next expedient, an exact drawing of one of the 
shoes (Fig. 575) was made, showing the concavity at different 
points of bearing surface of the quarters. The dotted lines show 
the location of the heels upon the shoe. To explain this more 
clearly, three drawings of transverse sections are given ; (a) shows 
by two points outside the inner edge where the outer edge of the 
heels rested; (6) the same at half the distance between there and 
the center of the clip on the sides ; (c) at that point. See p. 688. 
In the first place, the shoe is made very much longer and wider 
at the heels than the foot, for the purpose of making them look 
wide. In these cases, not only the bearing surface itself is largely 
bevelled, but this bevel is greatly increased by the seating, which 



SHOEING. 



687 



is carried well back to the heels and extended out to the edge of 
the nail-holes, the point of the heels extending even inside the 
inner edge of the iron. Out of the eight specimens selected from 
a pile of old shoes, there was but one exception to this. The con- 
sequence of such treatment is that the heels are constantly being 
crowded forward and under as weight is thrown upon them, which, 
with an excessively pared condition of the foot, causes such rapid 
loss of moisture that the heels become curled under, weak, and 
contracted. Now follows the 
putting of leather between the 
shoe and foot, the use of hoof lin- 
iments, and other means of re- 
lief, without any practical benefit. 
I copy here the remarks of an 
old author, J. Clark, of Edin- 
burgh, Scotland, in 1782, show- 
ing the bad eflfects of this treat- 
' ment : — 

" They cannot be satisfied un- 
less the frog is finely shaped, the 
sole pared, and thebai-scut out in 
order to make the heels appear 

wide. This practice gives them yj^_ 516.-The previous shoe, engraved 
ashowofwidenessforatime,yet from photograph. Would not bring 
that, together with the concave ^^^ ^^^^^^^ appearance, 

form of the shoe, forwards the con- 
traction of the heels, which, when confirmed, renders the animal 
lame for life." 

The principle of shoeing such horses is the same as in that of 
others : First, to level down the wall without interfering with the 
sole or frog. The bearing surface of shoe to be flat, and bent to 
the form of the foot, so as to support the wall evenly all the way 
round ; the shoe to be no heavier, and the calks, if used, no 
higher, than is barely necessary to sustain the wear to which it is 
subjected. In addition, the feet should be kept soft by stoppings 
and coverings of wet cloths at night. This should be especially 
attended to during dry weather, or when the feet are hot or 
feverish from severe work. 

The treatment for the cure of such is practically the same as for 
other conditions of contraction. Of course, much depends upon 




688 - SHOEING. 

the skill and ingenuity brought to bear in the treatment. In fact, 
herein lies most of the success in the management of all conditions 
of contraction. In my experience I never have found a smith 
who could catch the points of properly preparing the foot and fitting 
the shoes for such cases. In every instance I have been compelled 
to stand over the shoer, and dictate every movement, or do part 
of the work myself. First, the want of judgment in preparing 

the foot ; second, 

^^^^^ A ^^^^B ^ adapting the 

""" "" "■ weight of the shoe 

Fig. 517. — Concave bearing surface of shoe at heel. ,,!(!, in, 

- ting the clips so as 

^^^^^^ B f — "'^'^ I to enable opening 

^^^^^^ - the quarters easily 

Fig. 518. — Concave bearing surface of shoe between g^j^^ surelv as de- 
heel and turn of foot. . -^ 

Sired. 

^^ . Since writing 

'"" ""■ attention has been 

l....„19.-Concave bearing surface of shoe ^^^^^ ^^ ^ 

at turn of foot. . 

Simple and practi- 
cal method of opening the quarters for the cure of contraction, il- 
lustrated in Fig. 522, and devised by Mr. David Koburg, a prac- 
tical horse-shoer of great ingenuity and skill, who is located in 
No. 106 West Thirtieth street, New York City.* 

This spring he patented fourteen years ago, and has since used 
it with marked success. Various methods of opening the heels on 
this plan have been familiar to me for many years. Fig. 520 
is a specimen of form which I copied from an old French work. 
I also saw a spring almost the same in form and principle of ad- 



* My attention has been particularly attracted to this gentleman's method of 
treatment by two incidents : First, in a conversation, some years ago, with Mr. 
Bonner, who is himself undoubtedly one of the closest and best living students of 
the principles of shoeing in this or any other country, by his stating that Mr. 
Koburg was probably the most profound student in the art of shoeing in the coun- 
try; second, by learning at the Columbia Veterinary College of his remarkable 
success in the cure of a case of lameness that was pronounced by one of the highest 
authorities in the city as an incurable case of navicular-joint lameness. Special 
reference will be made to his method of treatment for this difficulty under the heai- 
of Navicular- Joint Lameness.- 



SHOEING. 



680 




Fig. 530. — Shoe with spring for 

cure of contraction. Copied 

from the French. 



justment which was devised and patented a few years ago by a 
horse-shoer in the upper part of New York City. But Mr. Roburg, 
by giviag more length to the spring, and simplifyiag its construc- 
tion, makes it all that can be desired. 
The . spring is made of steel, the exact 
proportion and adjustment of which is 
shown in Fig. 522. The wall is first 
weakened by sawing down slightly be- 
tween the heel and frog, when the 
spring is placed in position with so much 
force given to it as may be thought 
necessary to press the heels outward as 
desired. The -shoe is then nailed on 
over it, as ordinarily done. The press- 
ure is gradual and constant, and must 
prove just the thing where both quar- 
ters will admit of equal pressure. But 
should one quarter be much more con- 
tracted or unyielding than the other, it would not work so well, be- 
cause the full pressure would then be thrown on the weaker quar- 
ter. This is in part obviated by nailing the shoe well back on the 

quarter of the oppo- 
site side, which would 
prevent that side 
from being acted 
upon. 

It does not, how- 
ever, and cannot be 
made to give the re- 
quisite power to open 
the quarters back 
and outward, should 
the heels be drawn 
sharply inward and forward, as shown in Fig. 573, as can be 
very easily done by the method devised by myself. But this 
method of treatment is so simple and good that I have thought it 
advisable to give very careful drawings of it. This spring of 
different sizes and strength, with all particulars, can be obtained 
by addressing the patentee, Mr. Roburg. I also give illustrations 

44 




B c 

Fig. 521. — French method of shoeing — after Lafosse. 
A, B, C, D, and E show lines of adjustment. 



690 



SHOEING. 



of a form of shoe devised and largely used by him with great 
success, the form of which can be well understood by them. The 
object to be attained is, where there is a want of mobility, or 
much soreness and inflammation, to so form and adj ust the shoe 
that the foot will partly roll upon the ground and relieve the 
strain. This form of shoe has been patented by him. To use Mr. 
Roburg's words, " This shoe, by allowing the foot to roll upon the 
ground, gives the foot the advantage of an extra joint, and to that 

degree relieves the strain or 
want of mobility, which 
causes lameness or sore- 
ness." Consequently it not 
only enables the horse to 
travel easier, but aids in 




PlQ, 533,— An outline of spring, with its 
position on tlie foot. 



Fig. 523. 


Fig. 524. 


Thickness of the 


Width of bar- 


spring — ^foll 


full size. 


size. 





making a cure. This principle of treatment he has studied very 
closely and is remarkably successful. More special reference will 
be made to this in Navicular-joint Lameness. 

This principle has long been in vogue in France. I give an 
illustration from Laf osse, showing a side view of the hoof fitted for 
the shoe ; also a specimen of the French shoe. The principle is 
to turn up the shoe at the heel and toe about the thickness of the 
iron. Mr. Roburg's shoe differs essentially from this, in that he 
gives a curvature side-ways as well as with the length of the foot. 
What he terms his " best model of shoe," and which is the most 
unusual, is Fig. 525, which is nothing more than a thin plate 
hammered into a rounded or bowl shape, the exact proportions of 



SHOEING. 



691 



which are preserved m the drawings given. Fig. 526 is a side view 

which will give a good idea of the relative proportion of the curve. 

By this form of shoe 

the foot has perfect 

freedom of motion 

either way. If the 

foot is feverish or 

dry, a wet sponge or 

oakum is pushed in 

between the shoe and 

bottom of the foot. 

Fig. 529 is a view of 



the same made a little 

heavier, the same 

form of circle being 

preserved, with the 

difference of the central part being removed with cross-section of 

the same. The shoe from which this drawing was made was claimed 

to be the same that 
was worn by Dexter 
when he made his 
fastest time to road 
wagon. Figs. 531, 
532, show the method 
of putting on calk- 
ins. 




Fig. 535. — Roburg's best form of shoe to aid the 
mobility of the foot in lameness. 




Fig. 536. — Side view of the above, showing 
the curve. 




Quarter-Crack. 

This is the one difficulty next to contraction which seems to 
have baffled the skill of 
the best veterinary au- 
thorities and horsemen 
to prevent or cure; be- 
cause in extreme eases 
they had no practical 
treatment beyond that 
of a bar shoe, cutting 
away the horn so that 
the part back of the split would have no bearing upon it, or of sup- 



FiG. 537. — An exact scale of the curve 
of the shoe. 




Fig. 538. — Cross-section of the same. 



692 



SHOEING. 



porting the weak parts by drawing the edges together with nails, 
or fastening on a plate with screws ; all of which are merely pal- 
liative, and not to be 
depended upon. It 
would, of course, be 
easy to grow the foot 
down by keeping the 
horse in a stall or small 
yard where the ground 
is soft, but when put 
to work it would be li- 
able to split down 
again as before. Con- 
sequently it has been 
one of the most vexatious and annoying of difficulties, because to 

to do this it was nec- 

^^v;^^^^^^ ^y^^ essary to keep the 

^'"^-^ ^^^^^^ horse idle from three 




Fig. 529. — Ordinary form of rolling motion shoe. 



Fig. 530. — Cross-section of the same. 

then, when put to 
work, if by chance he 
were driven sharply 
over hard or frozen 
roads, the quarter was 
liable to burst, which 
would again make the 
loss of use necessary, 
liative measures refer- 
red to, and thus in time 
the value of an other- 
wise good horse would 
be destroyed. 

We see, in the first 
place, that the whole 
trouble arises from the 
hoof becoming con- 
tracted or too small for 
the internal parts. This 
will be most noticeable 



to six months ; and 




Fig. 531. — Side view showing degree of curve. 
Or it became necessary to resort to the pal- 




Fig. 533. — Ground surface of above, showing 
method of putting on calkins. 



SHOEING. 



693 




at the inner quarter by the wall becoming straight or drawn in 
sharply a little below the hair, the part at which the split inva- 
riably occurs. This is proved by the fact that the quarter is most 
liable to burst or split when the hoof is dry and hard, or when 
concussion is increased by driving on hard roads. This tendency 
to split is also increased by the inferior quality of horn grown ; 
because the contraction of the parts, or pressing of the wall in 
against the soft parts so obstructs 
the circulation that there is not 
sufficient blood to grow a sound, 
tough, healthy horn. On this ac- 
count in all such cases, if serious, 
the horn grows thin and brittle. 
The only reliable and practical 
cure is opening the quarters suffi- 
ciently to remove pressure until, 
the new horn is grown, which can 
be done to any degree desired as 
follows : First, cut down between 
the bar and frog of the inner quar- 
ter, as explained for contraction, 
until it will yield readily to pressure. Next cut away the edges 
of the wall to the end of the split ; then make a crease with the 
firing iron at the edge of the hair. If the split extends well up 
into the coronary band, this can be omitted, and instead, the iron 
touched length-ways with the split. If, however, the quarter is 
properly opened, such interference with the firing-iron will be un- 
necessary, as the horn would usually grow down sound without it. 
Now fit a shoe as explained for contraction, putting a clip only 
upon the inner side (as shown in Fig. 536). The opposite side is 
to be nailed well back to counterbalance it. When the shoes are 
nailed on, with the spreaders open the quarter all it will bear 
without producing soreness, or about a quarter of an inch. This 
done, fill the crack with a little melted resin or tallow, over which 
put a little tow to prevent gravel or .dirt from working into the 
quick. It is next advisable to stimulate the growth of tough, 
healthy horn. This can be done with hoof liniment, which should 
be put on as explained, two or three times a week. In addition, 
the hoof should not be permitted to become dry or hard, which can 



Fig. 533. — Quarter-crack. 





694 SHOBINa 

be easily prevented by stopping with flaxseed meal, and tying two 
or three thicknesses of blanket around the feet, and keeping wet 
while standing in the stable. The horse, if necessary, can be put to 
work as usual. In the course of a few days, spread out a little 
more, or as may be necessary to make the hoof sufficiently large 
to remove all pressure from the weak parts. When grown down, 
the cause is removed, first, by the quarter being opened out to its 

natural position, there- 
by removing all press- 
ure upon it outwardly ; 
second, by the circula- 
tion now having entire 
freedom more blood is 

brought to the parts. 
Fig. 534. — Toe-crack. Fig. 535. — Quarter-crack. ,, , ,, 

so that there is grown 

a tougher and thicker quality of horn, thereby making it a relia- 
ble cure. 

If an ordinary case, with but little drawing in of the quarters, 
simply lower the inside quarter a little so as to remove pressure 
from the upper edge of the wall, and put on a level shoe. Next, 
with a firing-iron, burn a slight crease across the upper edge of 
the wall, keeping the foot soft, and stimulating the growth by 
applications of hoof liniment. This will enable growing the wall 
down without its splitting back. But if the quarter is drawn in 
perceptibly, then in addition to the creasing, the quarter must be 
given entire freedom by cutting down between the bar and frog. 

The advantage of a bar-shoe is that it brings some pressure upon 
the frog, causing a slight spreading of the quarters, and giving 
relief; but, as must be seen, in its best form it is merely palliative, 
as the frog soon becomes atrophied by the pressure. But if the 
hoof is thin and much contracted, and especially if the growth of 
horn is not very healthy, nothing short of opening the quarter 
and keeping it so can be relied upon for success. 

Blind Billy, on account of the severity with which he brought 
the feet to the ground when traveling rapidly, frequently burst 
the quarter of one of his feet which grew white horn and was con- 
tracted a little. By weakening the horn between the bar and frog 
so as to let the quarter give as pressure was thrown upon it, in 
connection with keeping the feet soft and stimulating the growth 



shoei:n^g. 



695 



with hoof liniments, enabled growing the wall down several times 
without resplitting. Finally, during a severe freezing spell, when 
the roads were rough and hard, the quarter was split very seri- 
ously, which, on account of the thin condition of the hoof, it 
became impossible to grow down again without its spUtting 
back. All palliative measures 
failing, it became necessary to 
either control the quarter while 
growing, or in consequence of -the 
serious lameness the injury 
caused him, to take the horse off 
the road. This was not admissi- 
ble, as he could not be spared, and 
to prevent this I was compelled to 
devise some means of treatment 
by which this could be remedied. 
I noticed first that the whole 
trouble arose from the quarter 
being too small, or pressing too 
much upon the internal structure, 
and it occurred to me to open 
out the quarter and hold it there. 
The experiment was made, fit- 
ting the shoe with a clip, and it worked perfectly. The horse 
was driven as usual, over the hardest roads, during the balance 
of the winter ; yet the hoof grew down, not only sound but 
stronger than it was before. The incident suggested the idea of 
fitting a shoe in this way for the cure of contraction ; and for the 
convenience of opening either quarter as desired, the. spreaders 
were devised, which enabled doing this most perfectly. 

Corns. 

Corns are_ usually to be found at the inner heel, or at the 
angle between the bar and the crust, and are caused by the shoe 
pressing upon the part. This will be most likely to occur should 
the wall break down, or be cut away so much as to let the shoe 
rest upon the sole, or should the shoe be nailed well back on the 
outside and toe, as then, if left on too long, it will be drawn out- 
ward and forward so much that the inner heel will be drawn 




Fig. 536. — Form of shoe for 
quarter-crack. 



696 



SHOEING. 



under the quarter, and rest upon this part, bruising it. When the 
sensible sole is thus bruised, the effused blood mixes with the horny 
matter and makes a red spot, and if the irritation is continued so 
as to produce very much inflammation, ulceration may take place, 
which would, in some cases, be sufficient to aflect the inner wing of 
the coffin bone, and cause matter to break out at the coronet. Some- 
times when the quarter is very much contracted the space between 

the bar and quarter being 
greatly lessened, it causes 
such bruising or pressure 
upon the soft parts as to ex- 
cite inflammation, or a corn, 
which, in some cases, may 
be very serious. The usual 
remedy is to cut away the 
parts so that the shoe will 
not rest upon it, and put on 
a little caustic, or touch it 
with a hot iron, which de- 
stroys sensibility, and 
changes the condition of se- 
cretion. Butter of antimo- 
ny, or salts of nitre, is the 
favorite remedy; then melt 
in a little tar, resin, and tallow, and cover with a little tow to 
prevent gravel or dirt working into the tender part. The usual 
way, in severe cases, is to put on a bar shoe, so as to enable re- 
moving all pressure from the part. This mode of treatment, 
however, as usually done, is only palliative, not curative. The 
horse will travel better, but if the shoe is left on a little too long, 
or presses upon the part in the least, or should gravel or dirt 
accumulate between the part and the shoe, inflammation and 
lameness will follow. The only remedy for this is to remove the 
pressure. But in time by this treatment the difficulty is only 
aggravated and made worse. Hence, the usual assertion that 
" corns cannot be cured. ' 

The writer will now explain how corns may be cured without 
difficulty : The black performing horse, Giflbrd, one of his former 




Fig. 536.- 



-Gifford's foot, as it appeared 
before treatment. 



SHOEING. 



697 



team of horses trained to drive without reins, had a very bad 
bruise (corn) on one of his inner heels, which, if not carefully 
attended to, caused se- 
rious lameness. After 
being troubled with it 
about seven years, it 



had grown to such 
.proportions as to in- 
volve the entire angle 
at the heel, so that the 
horn was broken quite 
through, and the sen- 
sitive structure partly 
ulcerated. At the 
close of the season's 
business, early in June, 
there was considerable 
inflammation and sore- 
ness in the entire foot, in consequence of the aggravated condition 
of the corn, despite the fact that all pressure had been carefully 

kept from it. All palliative 




Fig. 537. — Position of spreaders for opening 
quarter. 




measures having failed, it 
occurred to the writer to try 
the experiment of removing 
all pressure from the part, 
and turning the horse to 
grass during the summer 
months. But there was an- 
other serious difficulty, to 
which, in part, some of the 
soreness might be attributed. 
By the contraction or curl- 
ing under of the outer heel, 
it had become so weak that 
it could scarcely be made to 
Fig. 538.— The shoe as it appeared when on, support his weight in trav- 
with the onter quarter opened out. ^^.^^^ ^^ -^ ^.^^ ^^^.^^^ ^ 

treat this at the same time. The division between the bar and frog 
of this side was well thinned out to make the quarter flexible. 



698 



SilOi']lNG. 



Next, a thin shoe of untempered steel, a Httle more than an 
eighth of an inch thick, was made to fit accurately to the wall 
(as shown by Fig. 537), the end being turned up for a clip, and 
fitted nicely to its place. The part of the opposite heel of the shoe 
coming over the corn, was entirely cut away, leaving simply suf- 
ficient to cover the wall, which at this point was very thin. The 
shoe was now fastened on sufficiently to hold it firmly in place, 
but with very small nails. There was no rasping or attempt to 
beautify the foot in any way. This is never in any case permit- 
ted by the writer in shoeing his horses. 

Figs. 536 and 538 give a very good idea of the appearance of 





Fig. 539. 



Best forms of bar shoe. 



Fig. 540. 



the foot before and after the shoe was put on. The quarter was 
now carefully opened back about three-eighths of an inch, without 
causing any irritation. Nothing was put over the bruise or corn, 
nor was it meddled with in any way. The horse was now turned 
out to grass daily. At first he moved very tenderly, though not 
lame. In a week the heel was again opened a little more, and 
again at intervals until opened out as desired. In a few weeks 
the tenderness, fever, and inflammation subsided; and at the ex- 
piration of three months the corn was entirely cured, there being 
a healthy growth of sole over the part, leaving only a slight touch 
of redness on account of not being entirely grown out. The con- 
tracted quarter was also out in its natural position, the change for 
the better in all respects being very gratifying. An ordinary flat 




SHOEING. 699 

shoe was now put on, when he traveled as well as ever. Most of 
such cases can be easily cured while the horse is kept at his usual 
work, by putting on an open shoe if the foot will bear it, if not, a 
light bar shoe, with the part coming under the corn entirely cut 
away, leaving only sufficient to cover the wall. It will not mat- 
ter whether the bar is cut away or not, 
as there will be nothing over it to harbor 
gravel or dirt. It would be advisable to 
fit the shoe carefully, or even drive two 
or three nails, to know exactly the posi- 
tion of the shoe upon the wall. Then i^^^^^fe ^M I 
mark the part to be cut out, when the ^W^^^MB f 
nails can be pulled out, the part cut or 
filed away properly, and the shoe again 
nailed in place. 

The success in the treatment of the case 
referred to led me to believe I had made Fig. 541. — Shoe fitted for cur- 
an important discovery, as I had not ingcorns.^ From Coie- 
f ound it laid down by any of the ordinary 

authorities on " Shoeing," under my notice. Since then, upon in- 
vestigation, I have found that the principle was well understood 
by many old authorities, though the method of treatment, as will 
be seen, was slightly different. 

Page 96, of Freeman's work on " Shoeing," published in 1796, 
says : — 

" I have frequently bought horses whose feet, on examination, 
proved to have corns, occasioned by ill-made shoes having pressed 
upon them. These were, in general, easily cured by paring the 
feet properly where the grievance lay, and turning the horse out 
without shoes for two or three months." 

In the supplement to Coleman's work, published in 1<S02, the 
writer found, for the cure of corns, the shoe cut away over the 
com, (see Fig. 541). 

Bracy Clark's work, in 1809, for the cure of corns, gives an 
illustration of a shoe with that part which would come over the 
corn entirely cut away. The half -moon shoe, or tip, by Lafosse 
referred to hereafter, is claimed to cure corns. Csesar Fiaschi, of 
the 16th century, gives a cut of a three-quarter shoe; almost the 
same form as that of Bracy Clark's, for this trouble. White's 
work, published in 1820, says : — 



700 - SHOEING. 

" The orAy thing to be done is to take off the shoo and turn the 
horse out to grass. In slight cases, however, this may not be 
absolutely necessary, and is often inconvenient, but it is by far the 
best plan, and, I may add, j^erhaps the only effectual one, when a 
radical cure is desired." 

This writer being goodauthority, I will include what he says 
on direct or palliative treatment : — 

" When a horse cannot be sent to grass, and the disease is so 
slight as not to produce lameness, let the affected heel, crust as well 
as sole, be rasped or cut down with the drawing knife, so that 
when a bar-shoe is applied there may be no pressure upon the affected 
heel, or about an inch beyond it, that is, toward the toe. . . . The 
practice commonly is to scoop out the reddened sole or corn between 
the bar and crust, and have these receive the bearing of the shoe ; 
but this will not do ; the crust also must be removed as well as the 
bar to the depth of a quarter of an inch. . . . Caustics and even 
a hot iron have sometimes been applied to corns; they may have 
had the effect of deadening the feeling of the part for a short time, 
but they often do great mischief, and should never be employed or 
permitted in any case of corn whatever. Tar ointment. Friar's 
balsam, or a solution of blue vitriol have also been used.* They 
may be innocent, but certainly not necessary. When corns are 
not attended to, severe lameness is often the consequence. Smiths 
frequently do nothing more than scoop out the corn, and apply a 
common shoe. This sometimes relieves the horse for a short time, 
but he soon becomes lame again, and generally lamer than at first. 
It is in this way that corns are rendered troublesome, and produc- 
tive of so much inconvenience. Inflammation and suppuration are 
thus sometimes induced in the heels, and matter breaks out at the 
coronet. In this case the whole of the affected heel must be 
removed, even the crust of the heel and the bar ; and when the 
part has been well soaked with a poultice, that is, after a few days, 
it may be dressed with tar ointment, and about a week after it has 
been thus dressed, the horse should be turned to grass without 
shoes." 

Weak Heels. 

If from any cause there has been much fever in the feet for 
some time in consequence of being driven on hard roads, or being 
partially foundered, there will be diminished supply of horn, so 
that the wall will not only grow slower but thinner. See refer- 
ence to inflammation and Figs. 505 and 506, on page 677."f 

* Formulas for these prescriptions will be found among miscellaneous recipes. 

+ According to scientific authority, ordinary inflammation of the horn-secreting 
surfaces gives a greater cell proliferation in general ; but when inflammation ap- 



SHOEING. 



701 




Fig. 542. — The foot as it appeared. 



Sometimes the heels are cut down so closely that should the 
shoe work loose, and wear or break down the quarters, it would 
be easy to pro- 
duce a weak, low 
condition of the 
heels. This may 
cause a great deal 
of trouble, on ac- 
count of the slow- 
ness with which 
the horn grows to 
supply the in- 
creased wear. 
This morbid con- 
dition of inflam- 
mation also pro- 
duces another 
very marked ef- 
fect, namely, that of separating the wall from the sole, or what 
is termed becoming shelly. Sometimes, if the shoes are badly 

fitted and made too wide 
at the heels (as explained 
under the head of Con- 
traction), they will soon 
cause a weak, bad condi- 
tion of the heels, the quar- 
ter gradually giving way 
or breaking down, and if 
the foot is at all flat, the 
sole and frog become lia- 
ble to settle, or are made 
convex. 

One of the most marked 
cases of this kind the wri- 
ter ever saw was that of a 
Fig. 543.— Form of shoe the writer would advise. Cart horse, brought to his 

preaches the suppurative stages, death of the horn occurs. But atrophy, or wast- 
ing of the secreting structure, gives a corresponding atrophied portion of horn- 
structure. - 




702 



SHOEING. 



notice in Central Pennsylvania. The feet were broad and flat, 
with the heels drawn in to a point so that there was scarcely any 
bearing of them upon the shoe. The result of this was that the 
horn wore or broke away until the line of bearing was over an 
inch above that of the frog. To remedy the difficulty, the calks 
were raised correspondingly high to keep the frog from the 

ground. (See Fig. 
542.) This horse trav- 
eled with great diffi- 
culty, even on a walk. 
If it is desired to re- 
store the condition of 
the circulation and 
quality of horn, by far 
the best way of doing 
it would be to put on 
thin-heeled shoes, with 
iron just wide enough 
around the quarters 
and heels to protect the 
wall, and then turn the 
horse out for a few 
months. In the meantime, dress the feet two or three times a week 
with hoof liniment to stimulate the growth of good horn, and 
prevent the weakening effects of too much moisture. If, how- 
ever, the feet are weak and the horse must be used, a better 
way would be to put on a thin bar shoe, the bar part extending 
well forward under the frog, to give more basis of support. (See 
Fig. 543.) Of course nothing more should be cut away from the 
heels than is sufficient to barely level them a little. Especial care 
should be taken to protect them from excessive wear and break- 
ing down by the shoe, which may be done by placing leather be- 
tween the bearing surfaces of the foot and the shoe. The better 
to support such a shoe and lessen the nailing, a light clip may be 
turned up on each side. In many cases of this kind the horn 
may be very brittle, so that it is not only advisable to use small 
nails, but to drive them where a strong hold can be taken — any- 
way, the shoe must be fastened on so firmly that it will not get 
loose or work on the foot. In some cases it may be necessary to 




Fig. 544. — ^The shoe as it may be fitted to 
support weak heels. 



SHOEING. 



703 




Fig. 545. — Original shoe fitted 
with plate on. 



bend the bar down, so as to enable a more accurate line of ad- 
justment to the wall and frog. If an arch becomes so weak that 
it settles under the weight upon it, 
the only safe or reasonable alterna- 
tive would be to support it. In like 
manner, when the sole becomes so 
weak that it settles down, it must 
be given contact with the ground, 
or supported by the use of a bar 
shoe. 

When in Massachusetts, in 1876, 
a leading horseman called my atten- 
tion to a fast- trotting stallion that 
had weak feet, and which caused 
him a great deal of trouble. He 
wished to know how to shoe them 
so as to improve their condition. I 
found the feet in good shape, but the sole and wall were very 
thin and weak, the effect, undoubtedly, of the horse being slightly 
foundered or overheated. I advised putting on a shoe that would 

support the sole and frog, the space 
between the shoe and froff to be 
packed with oakum, and the use of 
hoof liniment to grow a tougher and 
better condition of horn. He ob- 
jected, that this would not do, as 
the horse would not bear any press- 
ure at all upon the sole. Some time 
afterward my attention was called 
to a very high indorsement from 
this gentleman, of a certain form of 
patent shoe, that had been used on 
this horse. It stated that it enabled 
the horse to travel as well as ever, 
and that its utility was all that could 
be desired. I was interested to know just what kind of a shoe had 
been used, and when again in that vicinity, at considerable trouble 
found one, of which I give an accurate drawing. (See Fig. 545.) 
While it may be evident that in many such cases the shoe could 




Fig. 546. — The same with plate 
removed. 



704 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 547. — Heel of shoe with pad 
of oakum attached. 



be made to support the entire sole, if hammered out of iron, the 
increased weight would make it seriously objectionable. The fit- 
ting of a thin piece of steel plate, as 
shown in Fig. 545, would enable this 
to be done with but little addition to 
its weight. The manner of putting 
it on was simply by bringing the 
whole surface of the wall and frog to 
an even bearing, to which the shoe 
was carefully adjusted. 

Next, the space between the shoe 
and bottom of the foot was filled with 
oakum, to which was added a little 
tar and resin, so as to form an even 
but firm support all the way round.* 
The drawing of the oakum, as it 
appears in Fig. 547, is an exact 
illustration of that which was used upon the shoe named, though 
only the back part of it is shown. Parties who had used the shoe 
upon feet which had become sore 
and tender from driving upon hard, 
stony roads in the city and neigh- 
borhood, stated that it enabled the 
horses to travel much better. If 
the foot is sore and sensitive, sup- 
porting it with a bed of oakum in 
this way, will serve to break con- 
cussion, and consequently make the 
horse go better for a time. But for 
contraction, quarter-crack, coffin- 
joint lameness, etc., for which it was 
advertised as a cure, it cannot ben- 
efit beyond the efifect of slightly 
breaking concussion as explained. 
for weak heels and for any condition where the sole and frog 




Fig. 548. — The plate as attached. 



It would be just the thing 



* A preparation of tar, beeswax, hard soap, and resin, melted and formed into a 
salve, to be used with oakum as a packing, was given the writer by a horseman of 
much experience, as the best for this purpose, claiming that it softened the feet and 
stimulated the secretion of horn. 



SHOEII^G. 



705 




need supporting. As it is, however, seriously objectionable to 

cover the whole bottom of the foot when it can be avoided, I in- 
clude cuts of an improvement 
by which the whole bearing 
surface of the frog and heels, 
the important parts, can be 
supported without the sole be- 
ing excluded from moisture or 
air, which is important for the 
secretion of healthy horn. In 
such a case, if desired, the 
plate instead of being let to 
the inner edge of the bar 
(which is mainly made so in 
the cut to give it a more dis- 
tinct appearance), can be ex- 

riG.549.~Forwardslioe to prevent strik- tended across the quarter, so 
ing. From Dr. Hamill's collection. that the upper SUrfaCB will 

come even with that of the shoe, and be riveted on. 

The main point in the management of interfering is to have 

the shoe close under the wall at the point of striking, and the of- 
fending part shortened or straightened a little, and that there be 

no nails driven there, the clinches 

of which would soon rise and cause 

cutting. The edge of the shoe 

should be beveled under a httle, 

and filed smooth. There is usually 

a good deal of carelessness in letting 

the shoe extend outside the crust 

at the point of the heel. It should 

set well under the wall all the way 

round, and the wall filed smoothly 

to it. In addition, in some cases 

the horse will travel better to lower 

the inside heel a little, in others to 

raise it. It is m all cases advisable, 

however, if the horse can be made 

to travel without striking, to keep 

the adjustment natural by paring the foot level, and making the 

45 




Fig. 550. — Shoe to prevent inter- 
fering and clicking. 



706 



SHOEING. 




shoe of an equal thickness all the way round, with perhaps the 
inner part straightened a little. Raising the inside heel, which 
is the method in general use, while it tends to throw the ankle 
out, tends also to throw the foot in, as it is carried forward. It 
also brings such unequal strain upon the ankle joint as to some- 
times cause serious injury to it. Fig. 552 is introduced to show 
the bad effect of this. The inner condyle of the joint is worn 

down or eroded over one-eighth of 
an inch, and, by its friction, cut in 
through the cartilage of the oppos- 
ing part so as to conform to the an- 
gle shown in the bones as represent- 
ed. There is also a large accumu- 
lation of bony deposit on the outside, 
grown by the inflammation excited, 
showing the extremely bad effect of 
forcing an unequal bearing on the 
joint, and throwing the foot out of 
line. 

Sometimes colts driven to a sulky, 
when a little leg weary may strike 
badly ; in such a case the ankle must be protected. In all cases 
when the ankle is cut, the swelling and soreness increase the dif- 
ficulty, and should be guarded against by covering. If the irri- 
tation is kept up, and this is not done, it may result in perma- 
nent enlargement of the part, which would afterward increase 
the liability to be hit. This can be prevented only by coverings, 
or by being protected by the ordinary simple means, until the in- 
flammation subsides and the injury heals. I include here Prof. 
McLellan's directions : — 

"Treatment for interfering, to be rational, must take into account 
the causations. Thus, if the toes turn out — a very common cause 
of interfering — they should be inclined in all that is possible. This 
can be accomplished by bending the outside web of the shoe from 
its inner to its outer border, making the edge tlirough which the 
nails are driven, quite thin. Or if calks are used, the toe calk can 
be welded nearer the inside than the outside toe, and the toe calk 
beveled at the expense of its outer extremity. If the knee is 
banged, but light shoes are indicated. Lightness in the shoe is al- 
ways desirable in the hind feet, and if the season of the year per- 
raits, tips will be found very effective in prevention of interfering. 



Fig. 551. — The shoe as sometimes 
formed to prevent interfering. 



SHOBme. 



707 



The nails should be left out of the hoof at the point whei-e it 
sti'ikes, because the clinches are liable to become raised or loosened, 
and do injury." 

Clicking, or Overreaching.* 

"■ This is a term applied to the sti'iking of the hind shoes against 
the forward ones diiring progression. It may be due either to a 

faulty conformation, to weakness, or 
to disease. In seeking to remedy the 
defect, we must endeavor to discover 
its cause. If it is due to defective 
form, we may so adjust the hoofs and 
apply the shoes that the feet shall be 
placed upon the ground in such rela- 
tion to the body as to modify in some 
measure the fault of form. In some 
cases the toes of the forward feet 
must be reduced all that is possible, 
and the toes of the hind feet length- 
ened. In others, weights or heavy 
shoes upon the forward feet answer a 
good purpose. In some, weights 
upon the outside of the hind feet over- 
conxe the difficulty. 

" If the hind feet are placed upon 
the ground well forward when the 
animal is at rest, heel calks of extra 
length will be found useful. 

"Weakness, as a cause of clicking, 
is shown in colts and in horses that 
have diseased hind feet. In the first, 
the animal is not able, or has not 
learned, to d^vell upon the hind foot 
to give to the body that forward im- 
pulse that comes from the long push; 
in the second, pain prevents the ex- 
tension. In the case of the colt, shoe- 
ing raiist be supplemented by good driving, — the animal should be 
kept up to the bit, and the head well checked up, and should not be 
fatigued by over-driving. In the case where the clicking depends 
upon a diseased condition of the foot or leg, the removal of the 
cause is the indication. As general rules for the prevention of 
clicking, the toe of the forward hoof should be reduced all that it 
will bear ; the shoe should be short, both at the toe and heel ; the 
heels of the shoe should be beveled at the expense of its ground 
surface ; when the toe should be beveled, giving the shoe, when 
applied, the appearance of one partly worn. In many cases con- 
caving the ground surface of the shoe is useful. If the toes are 




Fig. 553. — Effect of injury caused 
by interfering. From a speci- 
men presented by Prof. 
Cressy, of Hartford. 



* Contributed by Prof. McLellan. 



708 SHOEING. 

long and the heels extremely low, thick-heeled shoes or heel calks 
are indicated. 

" The hind shoes should be light and long at the heels, giving the 
heels of the shoe as wide a bearing as possible. In case the toe of 
the hind foot is much worn, and as a consequence the hoof spread 
at its plantar surface, clips should be drawn up from each 
side of the shoe, so as to grasp the wall at its widest part. No 
attempt should be made to fit the shoe to the squared and shortened 
toe ; but give it the natural form, and let it project at the toe to 
that extent that would indicate the length of the hoof were it un- 
worn. Heel calks upon the hind shoes are applicable to nearly all 
cases. 

"In all cases of overreaching or clicking, adjusting the hoof and 
shoe so that the inside quarter and toe of the hoof are higher than 
the outside, will assist in overcoming the difficulty." 

Stumbling. 

"Stumbling is usually associated with some diseased condition of 
the foot. In the prevention of this disagreeable and dangerous 
habit, particular attention must be given to cutting the hoof. Reduce 
the hoof all it will bear without injury ; see that the hoof is of 
equal depth on each side of the toe. This you can ascertain best 
by standing in front of the horse and comparing the two sides. In 
fitting the shoe, bend up the toe, giving it the rounded appearance 
of one well worn. If calks must be used, weld toe calk back to 
inner margin of web, making it low. In the stable use wet swabs 
to the feet." 

Shoeing Sore or Tender Feet. 

It is very important in shoeing sore or tender feet to enable the 
horse to travel with the greatest comfort and ease. As will be 
found in "Navicular or Chronic Lameness," much depends upon 
the method of shoeing in producing favorable conditions, which 
should be studied in connection with this explanation. Should a 
horse show inci-eased tenderness or soreness while driving down 
hill or over rough, stony roads, at times " crimpling" badly, 
going better on smooth, soft, or sandy roads, and with the shoe 
worn perceptibly more at the toe than at the heels, first see 
whether there is any contraction at the inner or both quarters, with 
the hoof looking rather hard and glossy (usually one foot only will 
show this condition, and may be correspondingly tender or lame). 
Also see whether the lameness came on suddenly or gradually. If 



SHOEING. 



709 




suddenly lamed, it is probably caused by straining the coffin-joint, 
which would be indicated by its being unable to bear pressure 
upon the frog. In such 
a case the horse 
go decidedly worse on 
rough, stony roads or 
down hill, where there is 
liability to severe inci- 
dental pressure being 
brought against the frog. 
For such a condition of 
lameness, the shoe should 
be made with high heels 
and rounding toe — no toe 
calks. The calks should 
be gradually shortened 
as there is improvement. 
If the lameness came on 
gradually, and especially 

if it set in at a time ^'^- SSS—Fumi of shoe that may bo used. 

when the feet were very dry and hard, it was probably caused by 
some slight inflammation, the result of contraction and fever ; 
because when the feet are very dry and feverish, the hoof becomes 

smaller, causing increased pres- 
sure upon the soft parts and lat- 
eral cartilages. There may be 
also some inflammation or a mor- 
bid condition of the coffin-joint. 
If any contraction is noticeable, 
the feet should be softened and 
treated as explained under that 
head. 

If, however, the object is to 
shoe the horse for present use, 
simply raise the heels a lit- 
tle and round the toe. If there 
is but little soreness or want of mobility, then let the shoe be an 
ordinary flat one, with the toe turned up like that of an old shoe 
considerably worn. Qreat care should be used in taking off" and 




Fig. 554. — Form of shoe for covering 
a weak, thin sole. 



710 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 555. — Adapted for a hind 
foot in aiding mobility. 



nailing shoes on such feet, not to wrench or hammer the foot 
heavily. In winter, if calks must be used, let them be arranged 
something like Fig. 558; or a low, long calk can be put on well 
back under the toe. In taking off the shoes, the clinches should 
be carefully raised, and the nails, one at a time pulled out. In 

nailing on, the strokes should be 
light, and the clenching barel}'" 
sufficient, by repeating light tap- 
pings, to turn over nicely. Any- 
thing in the way of hard, tight nail- 
ing should be avoided. The shoe 
should be simply held nicely in 
place without being pulled ,tight. 
There are a great many pads 
and cushions advertised for tender 
feet. If rubber pads be put over 
the shoe, it is seen, in the fir,st 
place, that nailing on the shoe and 
turning down the clinches suffi- 
ciently tight, presses it down so closely as to take out all its 
elasticity ; in addition, the heels soon wear and cut through it to 
the shoe, so that they can have but little, if any, effect in relieving 
concussion. Leather well fitted 
between the shoe and foot will, in 
many cases, help considerably. 
I have found that making the 
heel-calks rather low and sharp, 
and the toe-calks well back about 
the middle of the bar, greatly 
helps in breaking concussion on 
mud roads ; as by their setting 
into the ground the force of the 
blow is much lessened. 

A great many shoes have 
been devised for the purpose of 
relieving concussion ; but practically they have proved of but 
little or no value. The most successful way has been to fit two 
thin plates with rubber between them, but it proved too expensive 
and complicated to come into general use. (Prof. Going's Patent 




Fig. 556. — Form of shoe ivith toe 
simply rounded. 



SHOEING. 



711 



Rubber Shoe.) A common method practiced by many shoers is 

to spring or bend the shoe off from the heels, with the behef that 

it must relieve them. (See Fig. 558.) 

This is objectionable, because it transfers 

the beariag from the natural position of 

the heels to parts least capable of receiv- 

ing'it, multiplied with such leverage upon 

the wall where the shoe is bent off, as to 

cause severe pain. It also soon breaks 

down the quarters so as to work upon the 

shoe, thereby becoming an additional 

source of weakness and injury. 




Fig. 557. — Shoe adapted for 
a stifE Joint. 




Fig. 558. — Shoe raised from 
the heel. 



Shoeing Foundeeed Horses. ■> 

If the mobility of the foot is destroyed, as the result of chronic 
founder, or other cause of morbid inflammation, mobility must 

be aided by rounding the entire shoe or 
toe. If the foot is entirely stiff, the 
shoe must be so formed that it wUl 
roll upon the ground, which can be 
easily done by leaving the inner edge 
of each side wide, and turning down 
in a half circle, as shown in Fig. 557. 
If the sole is -broken down, or the 
wall separated at the toe, the result of 
acute inflammation or founder, weight will be thrown more upon 
the heels. For such cases the shoe must be so fitted as to extend 
well back under the heels, and if 
the sole is very thin at the toe — 
bulging down— it may be sup- 
ported by letting a thin flange 
of iron extend well back under 
it, or fitting a steel plate across 
the part so as to give an even 
support all the way round, and the adjustment made easy by 
packing with oakum, though in most cases the sole will not bear 
pressure, and is simply to be protected by a wide shoe. The shoe- 
ing of such feet must be in a great measure experimental ; con- 
sequently the ingenuity of the owner or smith must be exercised 




Fig. 559. — French shoe for aiding 
mobility. 



712 SHOEING. 

to conform with best advantage to the condition of the case. 
First, do nothing that will irritate or make the foot sore. It sim- 
ply must be supported to the best advantage, and the mobility 
aided by rounding the toe, or setting the calks well back under it, 
as shown by Figs. 531 and 553. 

EXTRACTS FROM STANDARD AUTHORS. 

This chapter would be incomplete without reference to a few 
authorities, showing the bad effect of paring the sole and frog 
excessively, rasping the outer surface of the hoof and the use of 
thick, badly-fitting shoes. I will call attention first to the most 
prominent authority, Prof. Coleman, from whose teachings all the 
modern works in this country have been principally guided in 
their instructions. In January, 1792, a Veterinary College was 
started in London. A short time afterward Edward Cole- 
man was appointed Chief Professor. I cannot do better here than 
copy from Prof. Gamgee's work on " Shoeing," published in Lon- 
don in 1874, in relation to Coleman's teaching. He says : — 

" In England, since Prof. Coleman ruthlessly destroyed the em- 
pirical knowledge of the old masters, and substituted for it a system 
of fantastic and often cruel notions, we have been a prey to endless 
speculative theories. The result is that with the best horses in the 
world;, we have a far larger proportion of lame ones than are to be 
found in any other country. . . . 

" It was a kind of teaching on the foot and on shoeing that did 
the incalculable and, I fear, almost irreparable damage which has 
brought suffering on horses and shortened their existence, which 
has spoiled farriers by leading them astray on false pretexts, and 
has entailed discredit on the English Veterinary School. . . . 

" One change, among others introduced by Mr. Coleman, has 
entailed, 1 believe, a more lasting damage on the art farriery 
than any of his many other crochets, which have unfortunately 
become thoroughly parts of English horse shoeing. He introduced 
the drawing-knife, and made it supercede the buttress for preparing 
the feet for shoeing. The buttress is the instrument still in use for 
pairing down the wall surface to receive the shoe eveiy where except 
in England and parts of the New World, to Avhich English hands 
and language have carried our modes of shoeing, such as it has 
become only within the present century. 

"Old men can remember the buttress being in general use 
throughout Great Britain ; but the way it was banished from En- 
glish practice is known to few ; and its supercedence, and these 
remarks on the effects of the change, may astonish many. The 



SHOEING. 



TlS 



drawing-knife, or searcher as it was called, a small hooked, crooked 
little instrument, was formerly kept for the purpose of exploring 
wounds and extracting foreign bodies from the foot, and was to 
that extent in vogue on the Continent as well as in England. But 
theorizing, and a fancy for a change, led the professor to order the 
general use of the little hooked knife instead of such a broad, level 
tool as the buttress. He had unfortunately conceived such notions as 
that the sole of the foot did not bear the weight of the animal, that 
it was necessary to pare it thin every time the horse was shod, 
and that the broad, level buttress 
was not suited for that ; hence 
the preference for the little 
scooping, crooked searcher. As 
these incidents have had a dis- 
astrous effect on shoeing, which 
we have scarcely in any degree 
begun to relieve, I will quote 
from Mr. Coleman's work of 
1798 :— 

" ' Those who supposed that 
the weight of the animal was 
chiefly supported by the horny 
sole, have attributed a function 
to that organ which it does not 
possess ; but, although the lam- 
inae are capable of sustaining the 
weight of the animal, yet, as 
they are elastic, and at every 
step elongate?, the horny sole is 
necessarily pressed down in the same degree, and by first descend- 
ing, and then ascending, as the laminae dilate and contract, the 
horny sole contributes very matei'ially to prevent concussion. This 
union of the crust with the cofiin-bone sustains the weight of the 
animal ; the crust supports the weight even when the horny sole 
and frog are removed ; if the sole and frog in reality supported the 
weight, then the foot would slip through the crust when the frog 
and sole were taken away. 

" ' The sole, frog, and bars were taken away from both the fore 
feet of a horse ; the feet were then alternately lifted by placing the 
hands on the loins of the horse ; he kicked, all his weight was then 
sustained by the laminas of the fore feet, and yet this made not 
the smallest degree of change in the situations of the bones. 

" ' From this experiment, therefore, it is, that the union of the 
sensitive laminas with the horny laminae is sufficiently strong to 
support the whole weight of the animal on two feet. 

" ' The first thing to be attended to is to take away the portion 
of the sole with the drawing-knife ; and to avoid pressure, the sole 
should be made concave or hollow. If there be any one part of 
the practice of shoeing more important than the rest, it is this re- 




FiG. 560. — Shoe tor weak sole, or 
foundered feet. 



714 



SHOEING-. 




moval of the sole between the bars and the crust. In common 
practice these parts of the hoof are removed by an instrument 
called the buttress. 

" ' The removal of a proper quantity of horny sole has been 
represented to be a delicate operation, and in the hands of common 
smiths liable to do mischief. But any smith capable of paring a 
hoof cannot fail to be equal to removing part of the sole with the draw- 
ing-knife. That the practice may be faithfully executed in the 

army, a farrier from each 
regiment of cavalry has 
been permitted to attend 
the college to learn the 
practical part of shoeing.' 
"The foregoing pas- 
sages, abounding as they 
do in errors, give evidence 
of the manner in which 
some of the greatest 
changes in the practice of 
horse- shoeing have occur- 
red since its history has 
been written, and changes 
which have led to the 
worst possible results. 
Once, however, the notion 
got possession of the 
minds of the men at the 
wheel, that the bottom of the foot, its arched sole, was not designed 
to support the weight, but to yield to pressure downward ; every- 
thing had to give way to that idea. The sole and frog were torn 
away, and b.ecause, during the barbarous experiment, the connection 
did not yield, and the bone protrude as a finger through a torn 
glove, negative evidence was taken in confirmation of the theory 
framed ; the paring away of horses' soles with the drawing-knife 
was thus established, and the army, by sending farriers to learn 
the new system, became the means of enforcing the absurd and 
cruel practice of thinning the sole throughout this kingdom and 
the colonies." 

" It is interesting to see the differently constituted mind of Mr. 
Moorcroft on the natural bearing of the question in 1800. He 
says :— 

" ' The sole ties the lower edge of the crust together, and by its 
upper part forming a strong arch, it affords a firm basis to the bone 
of the foot, and by its strength it defends the sensitive parts within 
the hoof.' 

" This is true. We fail to discover a single 2')assage in any work 
or any traditional account to show that any objection was raised to 
the continuance of the use of the buttress in England, any more 
than over the rest of the world, where it had been adopted from 
time immemorial, until along with his other new theories about 



Fig. 561. — Side view of the previous shoe. 



SHOEING. 715 

slLOeing, Mr. Coleman believed it to be the wrong thing to employ, 
and then a crooked knife and a coarse rasp were adopted as 
weapons that might do more destructive execution than the one 
dismissed." 

The writer has talked with several veterinary surgeons of high 
standing, who think that Coleman did not mean, by the experi- 
ment named, to infer that the sole should be cut away to such a 
degree as to yield to the pressure of the thumb (which is the com- 
mon rule), but that he wished to prove that it could be done 
without breaking down the foot ; and that his followers carried 
it to this extreme, thereby making it the cause of a great deal of 
harm. 

A few paragraphs are also introduced from Youatt and Miles, 
the most commonly accepted and widely read authors in this 
country, to show that their principles of treatment are the same, 
and have been derived from the same source. 

" That portion of the horn should be left on the foot which will 
defend the internal parts from being bruised and yet suffer the ex- 
ternal sole to descend. How is this to be ascertained ? The strong 
jyressure of the thumb of the smith will he the best guide. The buttress, 
that most destructive of all weapons, being, except on very particu- 
lar occasions, banished from every respectable forge, the smith sets 
to work with his drawing-knife and removes the gi'owth of horn 
until the sole will yield, although in the slightest possible degree, 
to the strong pressure of the thumb." — Youatt. 

" It would be impossible to frame any rule applicable to the par- 
ing out of all horses' feet, or indeed to the feet of the same horse at 
all times. For instance, it is manifest!}^ unwise to pare the sole as thin 
in a hot, dry season when the roads are broken up and strewed with 
loose stones, as in a moderately wet one, when they are well bound 
and even ; for in the former case, the sole is in perpetual danger of 
being bruised by violent contact with loose stones, and consequently 
needs a thick layer of horn for its protection ; while the latter case 
offers the most favorable surface that most of our horses ever have 
to travel upon, and should be taken advantage of for a thorough 
paring out of the sole, in order that the internal parts of the foot 
may derive the full benefit arising from an elastic and descending 
sole, — a state of things very essential to the due performance of 
their separate functions. Again, a horse with upright feet and high 
heels gix)ws horn very abundantly, especially toward the toe, and 
is alwaj^s benefited by having the shoe shortened, and the heels 
lowered and well pared out." — Miles. 

George Fleming, who stands confessedly at the head of the 




716 SHOEING. 

English Veterinary Profession in England, in his work on Shoes 
and Horse-shoeing, says: — 

" By dint of knife and rasp, the dimensions of the organ, the 

foundation of the edifice, have been greatly reduced, and the animal 

rests on a narrower basis. The sole has been carefully denuded of 

its protecting horn, until the thin pellicle of newly secreted material 

is exposed and readily yields to the 

thumb. The frog is scientifically reduced 

on every side, the heels or commissures 

are well opened up, the bars are reduced 

in size, and fantastically delineated, and 

the portion of the crust between them and 

the seat of the corn — as carefully carved 

out a la Miles. The plantar surface of 

the foot altogether is much more concave 

than it was previously, and it looks like a 

master-piece of workmanship. It may 

present something like the shape, when 

prepared for the shoe, seen in Fig. 562. 

" A shoe is then fitted to the foot. In 

all probability it is then too small ; it has 

_, ^ .„ -, ^ . , a wide, flat around surface, the foot sur- 

FiG. 563. — Foot excessively „ ,' iij V-t-^l. ±. 

race has a plane border on which the crust 

^^^^ ■ rests, and the remainder is beveled to 

avoid contact with the abnormally thin sole. When this metallic 
plate is fastened on the hoof, and the horse once more rests on the 
limb, the foot has no longer its natural bearing. The whole weight 
of the horse, as well as any other weight he may have to sustain 
on his back, is borne by the crust of the foot alone. The frog is 
elevated above the ground, and the sole dare not come near it. In 
fact, the shoe has a very wide surface or web to protect the sole of 
the poor mutilated foot from the injury likely to be inflicted by 
stones on the road, — injury that before shoeing could have been 
resisted far better by nature's protection. 

" The shoe, as we have seen, was too small; or rather the farrier 
imagined the plantar surface which supported the weight and 
strain so admirably in a natural condition, to be too large ; so 
when the metal plate has been securely attached, a large portion of 
the hoof hangs over it — the best and strongest portion ; and this 
has to be removed with the rasp or toe-knife. The nails have been 
driven to a certain height in the wall, and as their extremities must 
be riveted or clinched, these clinches must not be disturbed. The 
over-hanging crust between them and the shoe, however, is rasped 
away, and the face of the foot presents a rounded or knobbed ap- 
pearance, very unlike its natural outline. In all probability the 
whole external surface up to the coronet is tastefully rasped and 
polished, the varnish-like covexnng nature had spread over it is 
carefully removed, and the fibres beneath are more or less damaged, 
exposed to desiccation, and shrink; while below the clinches they 



SHOEING. 



717 




Fig. 563 



have been entirely destroyed, and nothing is left to support the 
nails holding on the shoe but the thin, soft fibres, as fragile almost 
as the pith of a rush, and which were never intended by nature to 
be exposed. Consequently they lose their moisture, wither, crack, 
and break off, and frequently the shoe is lost, and with it a large 
portion of the hoof. 

" The same pi'ocess goes on with the sole and frog. The young 
horn, prematurely exposed, cannot resist 
the effects of evaporation, and shrinks in 
the same way. At each shoeing the 
same routine is followed by the farrier, 
and the horn is often so hard that arti- 
ficial means must be adopted to soften it 
in order to get off a sufficient quantity to 
allow the sole to spring under the thumb. 
" In this we cannot altogether blame 
the farrier ; he is only carrying out the 
ideas of men who have published books 
on shoeing. Can we wonder that it soon 
becomes necessary to adopt every means 
to supply, artificially, that which has 
been removed indiscreetly ? Heavy iron 
shoes with plenty of cover to defend the 
morbidly sensitive horn of the soles which 
may have been thinned till the blood was 
oozing through, before these cumbrous 
shields were applied. Words cannot describe the agony a horse 
must experience when he chances to step on a sharp or even blunt 
stone. And yet the writers who have counseled this mutilation of 
the foot, have laid this tenderness^the limping gait, and falls with 
broken knees — to the nails of the shoe preventing expansion. 
Plates of leather covering the delicate frog and sole, and layers of 
tar and tow are brought into requisition to compensate — though 
such is not confessed— for the loss of the horn, but with very small 
results. In a brief time the whole foot becomes dwarfed ; the frog 
deprived of its natural functions, like the muscles of a paralyzed 
arm, becomes atrophied, diseased, and almost disaj)i3ear8, the sole 
becomes still more concave and hard, and the foot toward the 
heels narrower, as in Fig. 563. At the same time the unfortunate 
creature begins to move as if it were in pain ; the flexor tendon on 
its course over the navicidar bone has lost its support, and 
has, from the first shoeing, been acting. at a very serious dis- 
advantage. The mutilation of the hoof by removing the best 
portion of the horn at the very time it was most required, has 
inflicted a serious injury upon it, and the bone over which it has to 
play during its arduous task of flexing the foot and limb ; while the 
heavy iron shoe and the increase of concussion it engenders on 
artificial roads, all tend to hasten the ruin of the animal ; and, 
sooner or late, depending on the circumstances, we have either 
acute or chronic navicular disease, acute or chronic laminitis, or a 



Bad effect of 
excessive paring. 



718 SHOEING. 

host of other maladies of a more or less serious character. I am of 

course always speaking of the antei'ior extremities. 

" This evil of paring or rasping must be looked upon as the 
greatest and most destructive of all that pertain to shoeing, or even 
to our management of the horse. Nine-tenths of the workmen 
who resort to this practice cannot explain its object, and those who 
have written in defense of it say it is to allow the descent of the 
sole and facilitate the lateral expansion of the hoof. 

"Fancy our gardeners cutting and rasping the bark off our fruit 
trees, to assist them in their natural functions, and improve their 
appearance; and yet the bark is of no more vital importance to the 
tree than the horn of the sole wall and frog are to the horse's foot. 

" Tlie sole^frog, and bars must on no account, nor tmder any condi- 
tions^ unless those of a pathological nature, he interfered with in any 
way hy knife or rasp. As certainly as they are intei'fered with, and 
their substance reduced, so surely will the hoof be injured. Nature 
has made every provision for the defense. They will support the 
contact of hard, soft, rugged, or even sharp bodies, if alloAved to es- 
cape the drawing knife; Avhile hot, cold, wet, or even dry weather 
has little or no influence on the interior of the foot, or on the ten- 
der horn, if man does not step in to beautify the feet by robbing them 
of their protection, perhaps merely to please the fancy of an igno- 
rant groom or coachman. 

"If we closely examine the upper surface of the sole of a hoof 
that has been separated from its contents by maceration, we will 
find it perforated everywhere, by myriads of minute apertures, 
which look as if they had been formed hj the point of a fine needle. 
If we look also at the vascular parts of the foot that have been in 
contact with this horny sui'face, it will be observed that they have 
been closely studded with exceedingly fine, yet somewhat long 
filaments, as thickly set as a pile of the richest Genoa velvet. 
These are the villi, or papillse, which enter the horny cavity and 
fitting into them, like so many fingers into a glove, constitute the 
secretory apparatus of the frog as well as the sole. Bach of the fila- 
ments forms a horn tube or fibre, and passes to a certain depth in 
a protecting canal whose corneous Avail it builds. When injected 
with some colored preparation, one of them makes a beautiful micro- 
scopical object, appearing as a long, tapering net- work of blood- 
vessels, surrounding one or two parent trunks, and communicating 
with each other in a most Avonderful manner. These filaments are 
also organs of tact, each containing a sensitive nerve, destined to 
endow the foot with the^ttributes of a tactile organ. 

" This distribution will enable us to realize, to some extent, the 
amount of injury done by paring. The horn thrown out for their 
defense and support being removed by the farrier's knife, and per- 
haps the ends of these villi cut through, the meager pelicle remain- 
ing rapidly shrivels up, the containing cavity of each vascular tuft 
as quickly contracts on the vessels and nerves, which, in their turn, 
diminish in volume, disappear, or become morbidly sensitiA^e, through 
this squeezing influence. The feet of a horse so treated are always 



SHOEmG. 719 

hot, the soles are dry and stony, and become unnaturally concave. 
The animal goes tender after each shoeing, and it is not until the 
horn has been regenerated to a certain extent, that he steps with 
anything like ease. Until the new material has been formed, each 
papillae experiences the same amount of inconvenience and suffer- 
ing that a human foot does in a new, tight boot. 

" This tenderness is usually ascribed to the nails and other 
causes; and the horse, in the stable, rests on one foot, then on 
another, as if he suffered uneasiness or pain.* * * 

" All the preparation any kind of foot usually requires for the 
shoe may be summed up in a few words; leveling the crust in con- 
formity with the limb and foot, and removing as much of its mar- 
gin as will restore it to its natural length, rounding its outer edge 
at the same time, and leaving the sole, bars, frog, and heels in all 
their natural integrity." 

Osmer, an old writer of good standing, in 1751, says: — 

" I believe there are many horses that might travel their whole 
lifetime unshod on any road, if they were rasped round and short 
on the toe; because all feet exposed to hard objects become thereby 
more obdurate, if the sole be never pared; and some, by their par- 
ticular form, depth, and strength, are able to resist them quite, and 
to support the weight without breaking; and here a very little re- 
flection will teach us whence the custom arose of shoeing horses in 
one part of the world and not in another. In Asia there is no such 
custom of shoeing the horse at all, because the feet require a very 
obdurate and firm texture from the dryness of the climate and the 
soil, and do really want no defense. But every rider has a rasp to 
shorten his horse's feet, which would otherwise grow long and rude, 
and the crust would most certainly split." 

He continues by saying, — 

" Prom the good that was found to arise from putting shoes on 
horses which have naturally weak feet from being brought up on 
wet land, the custom of putting shoes on all kinds of feet became 
general in some countries. Our ancestors, the original shoers, pro- 
posed nothing more, I dare say, in their first efforts, than to pre- 
serve the ci'ust from breaking way, and thought themselves happy 
that they had skill enough so to do. The moderns also are wisely 
content with this in the racing way. 

" In process of time the fertility of invention and the vanity 
of mankind have produced a variety of methods; almost all of which 
are productive of lameness; and I am thoroughly convinced from 
observation and experience, that 19 lame hoi'ses out of every 20 are 
lame of the artist, which is owing to the form of the shoe. His ig- 
norance of the design of nature, and maltreatment of the foot," 
every part of which is made for some purpose or other, though he 
does not know it, 

"I suppose it will be universally assented to that whatever 



720 SHOEING. 

method of shoeing approaches nearest to the law of nature, such is 
likely to be the most perfect method* * * 

" The superfices of the foot around the outside, now made plane 
and smooth, the shoe is to be made quite flat, of an equal thickness 
all around the outside, and open and most narrow backward at the 
extremities of the heels, for the generality of horses, those whose 
frogs are diseased, either from natural or incidental causes require 
the shoe to be wider backwards; and to prevent this flat shoe from 
pressing on the sole of the horse, the outer part thereof is to be 
made thickest, and the inside gradually thinner. In such a shoe 
the frog is permitted to touch the ground, the necessity of which 
has already been seen. Add to this, the horse stands more firmly ' 
upon the ground, having the same points of support as in a natural 
state." 

" Make the shoes as light as you can according to the size of 
your horse, because heavy shoes spoil the back sinews and weary 
the horse; and if he happen to overreach, the shoes, being heavy, 
are all the more readily pulled off. 

" Those who think it frugality to shoe with thick and heavy 
shoes, and seldom, are deceived, for they lose more by it than they 
gain; for thereby they not only spoil the back sinews, but lose more 
by it than if they had been light." 

It is conceded by all the best modern authorities that the 
French author above referred to, whose work was published in 
1750, was the great father of a correct system of reform in 
in shoeing. It was supposed in his day as it is in a great meas- 
ure now, that a horse could not travel without having heavy, un- 
wieldy shoes on, and that the greatest skill was exhibited in the 
amount of cutting and rasping done on the feet. 

He boldly proclaimed that all this was injurious, and tried to 
prove it by the most convincing arguments. The principles of 
treatment, though given a hundred and thirty years ago, are just 
as important now as they were then. He says: — 

" In the state of nature, all the inferior parts of the foot concur 
to sustain the weight of the body; then we observe that the heels 
and frogs, the parts said to be most exposed, are never damaged 
by wear, that the wall or crust is alone worn on going on hard 
ground, and that it is only this part which must be protected, leav- 
ing the other parts free and unfettered in their natural move- 
ments." 

In advising tips or thin-heeled shoes, he says: — 

" Thin tips extending back to the middle of the quarters, al- 
lowing the heels to bear upon the ground, and the weight to be sus- 
tained behind and before, but j)articularly in the latter, because the 
weight of the body falls heaviest there. 



SHOEING. 



721 




Fig. 564. — Thin shoe devised and 
used by Lafosse. 



" The shorter the shoe is, the less the horse sHps, and the frog 
has the same influence in preventing- this that an old hat placed un- 
der our own shoes would have in protecting us from slipping on 
the ice.* * * 

" It is necessary, nevertheless, that hoofs which have weak walls 
should be a little longer shod, so that the gradually thinning 
branches reach to the heels, though not 
resting upon them. For horses which 
have convex soles, these long shoes 
should also be used, and the toes should 
be more covered to prevent the sole 
touching the ground. This is the only 
true method of preserving the foot and 
restoring it. A horse which has its 
feet weak and sensitive, ought to be 
shod as short as possible, and with thin 
branches, so that the frog comes in 
contact with the ground; because the 
heels, having nothing between them, 
are benefited and relieved." See Fig. 
564. 

" Crescent shoes are all the more 
needful for a horse which has weak, 
incurvated quarters, as they not only 
relieve them, but also restore them to 
their natural condition. Horses which 

have contusion at the heels (blains, corns), should also be shod in 
this way; and for cracks (seins, sand-cracks) at the quarter, it is 
also advantageous. 

" The sole or frog should never be pared; the wall alone should 
be cut down, if it is too long. When a horse cuts himself with the 
opposite foot, the inner branch of the shoe ought to be shorter and 
thinner than the outer. 

" Easping the foot destroys the strength of the hoof, and 
consequently causes its horn to become dry, and the horny laminae 
beneath to grow weak; from this often aiises an internal inflamma- 
tion, which renders the foot painful, and makes the horse go 
lame.* * * 

'' When a horse loses a shoe, a circumstance often occurring, 
and if the hoof is pared, the animal cannot walk a hundred steps 
without going lame ; because in this state the lower surface of the 
foot being hollowed, the horse's weight fails upon the crust, and 
this, having no support from the horny sole, is quickly broken and 
worn away ; and if he meets hard substances on the road, he all 
the more speedily becomes lame. It is not so when the sole is 
allowed to retain its whole strength. The shoe comes oif, but the 
sole and frog rest on the ground, assist the crust in bearing the 
whole weight of the body, and the animal, though unshod, is able 
to pursue his journey safe and sound. . . . It is necessary to 
be convinced of another ' fact ; that is, it is rare that a horse 



722 



SHOEING. 




goes at his ease and is not promptly fatigued, if the frog does not 
touch the ground. As it is the only point of support, if you raise it 
from the ground by paring it, there arises an inordinate extension 
of the tendon, caused by the pushing of the coronary against the 
navicular bone,' as has been mentioned above, and which, being 
repeated at every step the animal takes, fatigues it and induces in- 
flammation. From thence often arises distentions of the sheaths of 

tendons (moletts-vulgo, 'windgalls") en- 
gorgements, and swelling of tendons, 
etc., that are observed after long or rapid 
journeys. These accidents arise less 
from the length of the journey, as has 
been currently believed, than from the 
false practice of paring the sole. , . . 
We always find ourselves more active 
and nimble when we wear easy shoes ; 
but a wide, long, and thick shoe Avill do 
for horses what clogs do for us, — render 
them heavy, clumsy, and unsteady. . . . 
" That feet become convex by hollow- 
ing the shoes to relieve the heel and frog, 
because the more the shoes are arched 
from the sole, the more the wall of the 
hoof is squeezed and rolled inward, par- 
ticularly toward the inner quarter, 
which is the weakest, the sole of the 
foot becomes convex and the horse is 
nearly always unfit for service. . . . 
" The reason why it is dangerous to pare the feet of horses is, 
that wKen the sole is pared, and the horse stands in a dry place, 
the horn becomes desiccated by the air which enters it, and removes 
its moisture and its suppleness, and often causes the animal to be 
lame. ... 

" It is the pared foot that is more affected with what is termed 
contracted or weak inside quarter, and which also lames the horse. 
" It also happens that one or both quarters contract, and some- 
times even the whole hoof, when, in consequence of its smallness, all 
the internal parts are confined in their movements ; this is due to 
paring, and lames the horse, 

" There also occurs another accident : When the quarter 
becomes contracted, the hoof splits in its lateral aspects, and the 
horse is lame. This accident is termed a sand-crack (seime)." — 
Lafosse. 

Though not generally known, this system of shoeing has long 
been in use in India. Freeman, in his work published in 1796, 
who is yet considered good authority, strongly advocated this 
system of shoeing. He gives the following statement which ex- 
plains itseK : — 



Fig. 565. — Shoe devised by La- 
fosse for use on dry and slip- 
pery roads. A thin slip of 
iron let into the wall, and 
fastened with ten small nails. 



SHOEmG. 



723 



" The instance in which I was disappointed is that of a horse 
kept entirely for that of a riding-horse, and which is consequently 
almost daily under my own inspection. This horse has very strong 
feet, one of which was smaller than the other, with the toe turning 
out and the frog almost wasted. The bars of this foot, before he 
was turned out, were scarcely visible, but upon examining them 
after he had been out about three months, they were found to have 
increased surprisingly. ITot withstanding this, they were not strong 
enough to counteract the pressure of the quarters ; and the foot 
itself appeared to be rather decreased, which is contrary to what is 
usual ; for after having been turned out for a certain time, they 
generally become larger. So particular a case led me to turn my 
mind to a ];)articular method of cure. This I should have hardly 
found out, if chance had not at that time put into my hands Lieu- 





FlG. 



566. — The Goodenough 
thin-heeled shoe. 



Fig. 567. — The ordinary shoe 
as usually fitted. 



tenant Moor's Narrative of Captain Little's detachment. On I5age 
93 of this book is the following passage : — 

" ' The bigotry with which all sects of the Hindoos adhere to 
their own customs is very well known; still when these customs 
are strikingly injudicious, and totally abstracted from all religious 
prejudices, perseverence degenerates into obstinacy, and sim.- 
plicity into ignorance. So it is with the Mahrattas in abiding 
by their present practice of cutting the hoof and shoeing horses; 
they cut away the hinder part of the hoof in such a manner that 
the pastern almost touches the ground, and the frog is suffered to 
grow so that the hoof is nearly a circle, in which form the shoes are 
made, the hinder parts almost touching, and so thin that a person 
of ordinary strength can easily twist them. Instead of making the 
back part of the shoe thickest, they hammer it quite thin, making 
the fore part thickest, and the shoe, gradually becoming thinner, 
ends in an edge.' 

" This mode of shoeing in a country where, from the nature of 
the climate, the horse's feet probably are very strong, did not strike 
me to be quite so injudicious as the author above mentioned repre- 




724 SHOEING. 

sents it. I determined, therefore, to try on this particular horse a 
shoe in some respects similar to those described, that I might see 
whether it would alter the shape of his foot ; since it is said to make 
' the frog grow so that the hoof is nearly a circle, ' which was the very 
effect that in this case I wished to produce. I therefore ordered my 
smith to make a shoe at my own forge in the form I generally use 
(which will be hereafter described), with the following exceptions : 
The web of it was to almost cover the sole, room being given to 
admit a picker ; and as it proceeded to the heels, the web on each 
side was to be continued as far as the cleft which separates the bars 
from the frog. He was to make the 'fore part the thickest,' and 
to hammer it so thin at the heels that it would ' end in an edge,' 
by which a person of ordinary strength could easily twist it." 

"I own I apprehended that this 
" shoe, from being so thin at the heels, 

would bend in different places, and 
thereby injure the foot. But as it 
was constantly under my own eye, 
I knew that if that circumstance 
should hapj)en, the injury could not 
be material, in the short time it would 
Fig. 56S.-Lafosse'smethod of let- ^^ permitted to go unnoticed. But 
ting the iron into the hoof. this did not prove to be the case. Af- 
ter the horse had worn this shoe a 
day or two only, 1 found the action of the leg was more free than it 
had evei* been before ; for the bars with their covering touched the 
ground ; the extremities of the web on each side, by being so very- 
thin, having bent a little over them, but they were prevented from 
injuring them by being extended to the cleft which separates the 
bars from the frog. This pressure of the web on the bars was an 
assistance to them in the expansion of the quarters ; and the shoe 
was kept so wide at the heels that the exterior parts of it could not 
hurt him. This shoe therefore acted exactly contrary to other 
shoes, which, as I before mentioned, are generally an impediment 
to the expansion of the heels, whereas this became an assistance 
to it. 

" In three weeks I took off this shoe to examine the state of the 
foot. His frog was found to be increased, and in a better condition 
than I had before seen it. The same shoe was therefore replaced for 
three weeks more, at the end of which time his foot had become 
considerably larger and straighter. In a week or ten days more 
the horse was to go thirty-six miles on a turnpike road. 

"Although this kind of shoe had succeeded so well in a riding- 
horse, I had some doubts about venturing it on the road. However, 
I at last determined to risk it, and had another shoe put on exactly 
the same pattern, in which he performed his journey without any 
injury, so that I have ever since continued to adopt it, having 
found it to answer beyond any expectation I had formed of it; for 
that foot which was before smaller than the other, with the toe 
turning out, has, by the use of this shoe, become of the same sLze, 



SHOEING. 



725 




Fig. 569. — M. Charlier's shoe, 
showing the wall cut away. 



and so straight that there is now scarcely any difference between 
the two feet."- — Freeman. 

The preplantar system, introduced by M. Charlier, of Paris, 
which is simply letting a narrow band of steel into the wall to 
prevent wear, thereby preserving the 
integrity of the bars, sole, and frog, and 
giving the foot its natural adj ustment, 
is a modification of a shoe introduced 
by Lafosse for preserving the feet of 
saddle horses. See Figs. 565, 568. 

As there is no probability of this sys- 
tem (preplantar) being introduced into 
this country, I will not more than copy 
a part of the report of a leading Veter- 
inary Surgeon in France, Signol, 
mainly to show the benefit of keeping the integrity and adjust- 
ment of the foot natural in shoeing, or as nearly so as can be : — 

" First, in consequence of the comparatively trifling weight of 
their shoes, the horses acquired a lightness of movement they did 

not exhibit previously. Second, they 
gained an extraordinary solidity on 
the pavement, and did not slip. 
Third, many horses which always 
had corns and sand-cracks, and could 
not be used without bar-shoes, spon- 
taneously recovered from their in- 
firmities after the application of this 
shoe. Fourth, those frogs which 
were before shrunken and ' etrangle,' 
became considerably developed, a 
fact which proves that this shoe is perfectly adapted to the physio- 
logical movements of the foot." 



By accident this cut was left out of its proper place, 
on page 231, under head of "Bad to Shoe," where the 
explanation of it will be found. 

Fig. 571.— Four-ring bit form of War Bridle. 




Fig. 570. — Side view of the above, 
showing the amount cut out. 




726 



SHOEING. 



We give here a few specimens of shoes from Csesar Fiaschi's 
work, published in England in the 16th century. The figures of 
shoes he gives are twenty in number. No. 1. Fore-shoe without 
calkin ; 2. Shoe with the calkin ; db 'I Aragonaise on one side, 




Figs. 572-592. 

and the other side thickened ; 3. Lunette shoe, or "tip"; 4. 
Three-quarter shoe; 5. Beveled shoe, with the Aragonaise calkin 
on one branch, and the other thick at the heel ; 6. Shoe with 
sciettes, or projecting toothed border, thickened toward each heel 
to prevent slipping ; 7. Thick-sided shoe, thin toward the inner 
border, and seated like the English shoe ; 8. Shoe with buttons, 



SHOEI]S"G. 



727 



or raised catches on the inner branch, and thickened on the 
heel of the same side; 9. A shoe which has the inside heel and 
quarter much thicker and nar- 
rower than usual ; 10. A shoe 
with crests or point toward the 
ground surface on the toe and 
quarter, and barbettes at the 
heels ; 11. A shoe with the calk- 
ins doubled over, and provided 
with rings; 12. The foot sur- 
face of a shoe with the heels 
turning up toward the foot; 
13. Shoe with two calkins; 14. 

A bar shoe; 

15. A jointed 

shoe to suit 

any size of 

foot ; 16. A 

jointed shoe 

without nails, 

and secured 

by the lat- 
eral border and the heel -screw; 17. A hind-shoe with calkins; 18. 
A shoe with one of the branches greatly thickened at the heel; 





Fig. 594.— Tartar 
Chinese shoe. 



Fig. 593. — Thin shoe for cure of con- 
traction, fitted with clips turned up, 
as explained on pages 680 and 681. 





Fig. 595. — Old English concave shoe. 



Fig. 596. — French shoe of the 
13th century. 



19. A hind shoe with a crest or toe-piece; 20. A hind shoe with 
the toe elongated and curled upward, probably for a foot the 
back tendons of which were contracted, causing the horse to walk 
on the point of the toe. 



728 



SHOEING. 




Fig. 597.— a shoe devised to prevent ^'^- 5S8.— Covered shoe, with the 

throwing mtich weight upon the limb branches very wide and thin, and deeply 
when lame. adjusted. Applied to very flat, foun- 

dered, or badly-formed feet. 





Fig. 599. — Ordinary hind shoe for rid- 
ing or carriage-horses. Face and side 



Fig. 600. — Shoe with truncated toe; 
used on hind feet of horses that over- 
reach. 





Fig. 601. — Lafosse's Half-moon shoe, 
and tip of steel. 



Fxg. 602. — Scotch shoe for draught 
horses. 



SHOEING. 



729 



Below, from Fig. 604-614, are given a variety of old Roman 
shoes found in England, France, and Switzerland, and supposed 
to be from nineteen hundred to over two thousand years old. 
Figs. 604 and 606 are the best preserved. 




Fig. 604. 




Fig. 606. 





Fig. 605. 




Fig. 608. 



Fig. 609. 



780 



SHOEING. 





Fig. 611. -Supposed to be a 
pathological shoe. 



Fig. 610. 





Fig. 612. 



Fig. 613. 




Fig. 614. 




Fig. 615. — Shoe found in Germany, 

supposed to be several hundred 

years old. 



SHOSmG. 



731 




Fia. 630. 



African shoes. 



Fig. 631. 



CHAPTER XXII. 



THE CIRCULATION. 

The phenomenon of the circulation is of so interesting and 
remarkable a character, and its condition has such an influence 
upon the health, that I think it advisable, as an introduc- 
tion to the Medical Department, to make some reference to it. 
There are so many diseases and difficulties of a serious character 
which are the result of derangements of circulation, that it cer- 
tainly seems necessary to give some explanation of it, that the 
reader may be impressed the better with the necessity for such 
prudence and care as would prevent its disturbance. The writer 
thinks it also advisable, instead of giving a labored description, 
which may be easily obtained from any physiology, and which 
but few would take the trouble to read, to do this mainly by the 
aid of illustrations, a variety of which have been included at con- 
siderable expense. 

General Plan of the Circulation. 

The blood is circulated through the body for the purpose of 
nutrition and secretion, by means of one forcing pump, and 
through the lungs, for its proper aeration, by another ; the two 
being united to form the heart. This organ is therefore a com- 
pound machine, though the two pumps are joined together, so as 
to appear to the casual observer to be one single organ. (For 
general outlines see Fig. 625.) In common language, the heart of 
the mammalia is said to have two sides, each of which is a forcing 
pump ; but the blood before it passes from one side to the other, 
has to circulate through one or the other set of vessels found in 
the general organs of the body, and in the lungs, as the case may 
be. This is shown at Figs. 622 and 623, where the blood, commenc- 
ing with the capillaries on the general surface at a (Fig. 628), passes 

(732) 



THE oieculatio:n 



733 




Fig. 622. — Theoretical plan of the circulatoiy system. 

H, D, C, E. The canal for red blood; E, B, A, G. Canal 
for black blood. The axrows indicate the course of the 
blood. The two canals are represented in their middle por- 
tion, A B, C D, as isolated; but in nature they are envel- 
oped at this point in a common sac that concurs to form 
the heart. 

through the veins which finally end in the vena 
cava b, and enters the right auricle c. From 
this it is pumped into the right ventricle d, 
which, contracting in its turn, forces it on into 
the pulmonary artery e, spreading out upon 
the lining membrane of the lungs, to form the 
capillaries of that organ at /, from which it is 
returned to the left auricle g through the pul- 
monary veins. From the left auricle it is 
driven on through the left ventricle; and this, 
by its powerful contraction, forces the blood 
through the aorta i, and the arteries of the 
whole body to the capillaries a, from which the 
description commenced. 

While the venus blood is on its way to the 
heart, when near it, it is met by the thoracic 
duct (see h, y, Fig. 626, and k, Fig. 627), 
which conveys into this returning blood the 
nutritive property of the food extracted from 
it by the digestive organs. With this new 




EiG. 623.— Plan of the 
circulation. 

A, Capillaries on the gen- 
eral surface ; B. Vena cava ; 
C. Right auricle ; D. Right 
ventricle ; E. Pulmonary 
artery ; F. Capillaries of the 
lungs, uniting to form the 
pulmonary veins, which en- 
ter G. The left auricle; H. 
The left ventricle; I. The 
aorta posteria, dividing into 
smaller arteries, and united 
with the capillaries at A ; J. 
Trunk of the aorta anterior. 



734 



THE CIECULATION. 



supply of nutritious matter, the blood goes to the heart and lungs 
to be oxygenized Ijy contact with the air, and thus be continued 
through the heart and arteries as - before explained. The system 
takes up its material for its wear and tear through the capillaries 
or hair-like tubes, which are interposed between the two gi'eat 




Fig. 624. — Distribution of the anterior aorta. 



1. Anterior aorta; 2. Left axillary artery, 3. Eight axillary artery; 4. Dorsal 
artery; 5. Subcostal artery; 12. External thoracic artery ; 14. Carotid artery; 17. 
Posterior aorta; A. Pulmonary aorta; B. Trachea; E. Superior branch of the ilio- 
splnal muscle; F. Inferior branch of the same; G. Great complexus muscle ; 1,1. 
Originating aponeurosis of the splenius and the small anterior serratus muscles ; 
N. Sterno-maxillaris muscle ; 0, P. Great pectoial and sterno-prescapularis muscles 
turned downward. 

divisions of the vascular system, arteries and veins. These little 
tubes are so small that they are from 



'^'J 4 00^ 



TUoo 



diameter 
brain 



of an inch in 

The smaller are found in the retina of the eye and 

The worn-out tissue 



The larger in the liver and lungs 



THE CIECULATION. 



735 




736 



THE CniCULATlON. 



of the body is also taken up by the blood and carried off through 
the bowels, lungs, kidneys, and skin, which are the natural 
sewers or depurative channels of the body. The quantity of blood 
that a horse contains is about y ^ of his weight. A horse weigh- 
ing 1,000 lbs. would therefore have about 100 lbs. of blood, or 




Fig. 626. — The heart and principal vessels ; left face. 

a. Right ventricle; h. Left ventricle; c. Right auricle; d. Left auricle; e. 
Pulmonary artery ; /. Pulmonary veins ; g. Anterior aorta ; h. Left axillary artery ; 
i. Right axillary artery, or brachio-cephalic trunk ; ^j. Carotid arteries ; q. Posterior 
aorta ; x. Vena azygos ; y. Thoracic ducts ; z. Embouchure of that vessel, placed 
near the origin of the anterior vena cava. 

nearly 50 quarts. Fat horses have proportionately less blood than 
those that are lean ; and it is claimed that wild animals generally 
have more blood in proportion than the domestic ones. Forty 
pounds of blood have been taken from medium sized horses with- 
out serious injury; and it requires the extraction of about ^-^ of 
the total weight before life is destroyed. It is a remarkable fact 



THE CIECULATION. 



737 



that this large amount of blood in the body makes its entire 
round of circulation in the short period of from two to three 
minutes. This has 
been proved by the 
following experiment, 
which has been made 
and repeated many 
times at the Colum- 
bia Veterinary Col- 
lege, New York: The 
jugular vein was 
opened on one side of 
the neck, into which 
saline matter, or poi- 
son, was injected, and 
on opposite side tap- 
ped carotid artery. 
In fifteen seconds the 
first traces of the sub- 
stance injected could 
be detected in the 
blood ; in twenty sec- 
onds it was found 
very plainly. But 
while it is known 
that the main body of 
blood makes the 
shorter pulmonary 
circuit, that part go- 
ing to the extremities 




Fig. 



627.^ — The heart and principal vessels; 
right face. 



a. Right ventricle; 6. Left ventricle; c. Right au- 
ricle; <1. Anterior vena cava; c. Vena azygos ; /. Pos- 
terior vena cava ; r/, g. Pulmonary veins ; h, h. Divis- 
ions of. the pulmonary artery; i. Posterior aorta; j. 
Anterior aorta ; h. Thoracic duct ; /. Right cardiac ar- 
tery; m. Its vertical or ventricular branch ; o. Ven- 
tricular branch of the cardiac vein ; p. Auriculo-ven- 
tricular branch of the same. 



most distant from the 

heart requires much 

longer time ; but it is 

assumed that all the 

blood in the body 

makes its entire circuit in the short period of from two to three 

minutes. 

I refer to this fact, which is not familiar to the average reader, 
to show the great importance of not subjecting the horse to such 

47 




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THE CIECULATION. 



739 




influences as will derange the circulatory system. The remark- 
able energy of the circulation through the blood-vessels is very 

finely illustrated by 

spreading and ty- ^^ '^ 5 

ing apart the toco 

of a frog's foot, and 

examining the v/cb 

through a good 

microscope. The 

field of observation 

will appear like an 

immense plain cut 

up with large riv- 
ers intersected by 

numerous small 

streams, all run- 
ning with the ra- 

pidity of a torrent, 

the larger currents 

running much the 

faster. The blood 

corpuscles are also 

clearly distinguishable. Something of an idea of this can be seen 

by referring to Figs. 631 and 632, which represent such a view of 

the circulation through the web. 

When the circulation is in its natural state, that 
is, distributed properly to all parts of the body, it 
implies a state of perfect health, but if, from any 
cause, it is withheld or forced from any part of 
the body, there is not enough blood in that part, 
while there will be an excess in other parts. Thus, 
if the horse is exposed to a cold wind, or is 
chilled by a current of air striking the body, the 
blood will be forced from its surface to the inter- 
nal organs, accumulating where there is most free- 
dom for it, or where it is weakest; usually in the 
lungs and surrounding- parts, kidneys, bowels, 
and sometimes in the feet, the first indication of 
which would be a shivering fit, followed by fever. 



Fig. 639. — Web of frog's foot stretching between two 
toes, showing the blood-vessels and their anastomoses. 

a, a, Veins ; &, &, &, arteries, the capillaries 
being between. 




Fig. 630.— Epithe- 
lial cells of 
blood-vessels. 

a, &. From a vein; 
c. From an artery; 
Magnified 350 di- 
ameters. 



740 



THE CIECULATION. 



Now it is evident that the object should be, when there is such 
disturbance, to equalize the circulation again, or force it back to 

its natural chan- 
nels as quickly 
as possible, and 
that treatment 
by which this 
can be done 
most easily and 
quickly will be 
the best. The 
circulation is 
really controlled 
by the nervous 

Fig. C31. — Portion of the web of a frog's foot, largely magni- System, it the 
fled, after a drop of strong alcohol had been placed upon nerVOUS System 
it. The black spots are caused by the congestion J^g from anv 

cause weaken- 




induced by the alcohol. 



ed, SO that it is unable to act with the usual vigor, there is less 
ability to resist the influence of disturbing changes, and the horse 




Fig. 632. — Irregular contraction of small vessels in the web of a frog's foot 
after the application of stimuli. 

is, as it is termed, more liable to take cold, which means a disturb- 
ance of the circulation. 

Hence a horse, when warm and exhausted after a drive, if 
given a little too much cold water would be liable to have colic. 



THE CIEOULATION. 



741 




742 



THE CIECULATION. 




founder, etc. ; or if allowed to stand in a cold current of air, to 
have an attack of pneumonia, or some other indication of vascular 
disturbance before referred to, which would be scarcely felt if cool, 
and the nervous system in a vigorous condition. 

It is evident also 
.1 that the quality of 
blood being depend- 
ent upon the food 
taken, and the con- 
dition of the air 
breathed, it is neces- 
sary that the food 
should be clean and 
of good quality. 
No moldy grain, 
hay, or other food 
unfitted for proper 
nutrition, should be 
given, and the sta- 
ble should be well 
ventilated with pure 
air at all times, and 
all poisonous gases, particularly the ammonia which is formed 
from the urine, should be allowed free egress from the stable, as 
the animal cannot be expected to keep in good health while com- 
pelled to inhale such malaria. 

It is needless to explain the bad effects upon the depurative 
organs of the derangement of circulation by which these channels 
are to a greater or less degree " clogged," or unable to do their 
proper work. 

Now, it is within the province of every owner to prevent these 
troubles by the exercise of care in feeding, exercise, etc., which is 
much better and easier than to try to cure them when sick. It is 
far easier to prevent a house from getting burned up by not letting 
the fire get started, than to depend upon the power of putting it 
out, for with the best of energy it may cause a destruction of the 
building. So in the cure of diseases, it is a great deal better and 
safer to take such measures as will prevent them, for derange- 
ments once started will often, in spite of the best of treatment, 



Fig. 634. — 1. Superficial layer of skin, or cuticle; 2. 
Rete mucosum ; 3. Corium; 4. Duct of sweat gland; 5. 
Sweat gland; 7. Sebaceous gland; 8. Walls of hair sac ; 
9. Root of hair; 10. Fat cells; D. Cellular tissue. 



.THE CIECULATIOK 



743 



greatly injure, if not destroy the animal. It is certainly the 
owner's duty to guard his horse against unnecessary exposure, or 
merciless driving until in a profuse per- 
spiration, and then leaving the animal in 
some cold, bleak place without even a 
blanket, or but a very poor apology for 
one, and that thrown on carelessly, while 
the owner is perhaps enjoying himself 
Avith his friends in some drinking saloon, 
toasting his shins, and the poor horse 
stands shivering at the door. The effect 
of such bad treatment will not then have 
time to develop itself, but will be seen in 
a few hours, or at farthest on the follow- 
ing day, by 'a cold or cough, running at 
the nose, an attack of pneumonia, 1am- 
initis, or other cause of trouble. 

The three principal points in preserving 
the health of a horse are feeding, air, and 
exercise. In the first place, irregularity 
of feeding, even of the best of food, will 
produce disease ; but when with this is 
combined the giving of tainted or musty 
hay or grain, the difficulty is greatly ag- 
gravated. 

Ventilation. — The stable should be nei- 
ther too hot nor too cold. The horse will 
show the effect in a few days by coughing 
or having slight irritation of the mucous 
membrane of the throat. 

A horse can take cold as easily by go- 
ing out of the cold air into a hot stable, as 
he can by going from a hot stable into &, 6. Canal; c. Gland; d. 
cold air, and wee versa. It is the sudden Opening on surface; e. Per- 
change of temperature which produces ^""'^''^ epidermis, 
the change on the mucous coat of the larjms and of the throat. 
The clothing of the horse in the stable should be neither too 
heavy nor too light. If kept too warm, he will be more likely 
to take cold when he goes out to exercise on a cold or chilly day. 




Fig. 



635. — Sweat gland, mag- 
nified 40 diameters. 



744 



THE CIECULATION. 



To keep a hoi-so doing well, constant attention is necessary to 
^little things — watchfulness in driving ; if the road is heavy, and 
the horse shows fatigue or is Avarming up excessively, hold him 
up and let out on smooth, descending pieces of road — a very little 
driving without regard to this prudence will often get a horse 

"off his feed," if 
not cause sick- 
ness; properly 
clothing and pro- 
tecting a horse 
when warm af- 
t^T a drive; care 
not to give so 
much cold water 
as to chill ; if 
there is chill or 
inclination to 
fever or the horse 
is " off his feed " 
after a drive, 
giving a little 
fever medicine, 
with any other 
prompt measures 
to relieve the de- 
rangement at its 
commencement, may prevent a severe attack of congestion or in- 
flammation, if not save the life of the horse. It is in attention to 
these little things that the real key of the owner's success lies in 
the care of his horses. 

The simplest and best methods of treatment for all the ordinary 
causes of sickness and lameness will be found on the following 
pages. 

I would add in this connection that there are really but few 
diseases which are very dangerous or common to horses, and if the 
owner can be so aided as to successfully manage these difficulties, 
such knowledge must be invaluable to him. These difficulties 
comprise colic, inflammation of the lungs, founder, navicular- 
joint lameness, and shoeing. Ahorse may die in a few hours from 




Fig. 636. — Horizontal section through the middle plane of 

Three Peyerian glands, showing the distribution of 

the blood-vessels in their interior. 



THE CIEOULATION. 



745 




Fig. 637. — Section of the liver of a rabbit, with the he- 
patic or introlobular veins injected. 



a severe attack of colic, if not promptly treated; yet it is a diffi- 
culty easily managed, if it is known what to do, and it is done 
promptly. An attack of pneumonia is a very serious thing ; but 
during its first 
stages is easily 
managed if taken 
in hand at once. 
A horse that is 
foundered, if not 
treated promptly, 
is practically ruin- 
ed, as a change of 
structure quickly 
results; yet every 
case of acute foun- 
der or laminitis is 
curable, and not 
only this, but the 
treatment is so simple that it is not at all difiicult to comprehend 
or apply. Navicular-joint lameness is sure to ruin a horse if not 
taken immediately in hand ; yet it is one of the simplest of diffi- 
culties to manage in its first or acute 
stages, and hence the knowledge of its 
treatment is of the greatest importance to 
owners. Shoeing: A horse badly or im- 
properly shod, no matter how good the 
feet, if the hoofs are thin, is liable to be 
soon practically ruined. 

The treatment for these difficulties will 
be found to be particularly careful and 
thorough. There are, of course, many other 
difficulties which it is important to know 
Fig. 638.— Showing the or- how to manage, for which the best practical 
treatment is given. In fact, the medical 
department of this work will be found en- 
titled to the fullest confidence, and must be accepted as invaluable 
to horse owners. The writer would, however, recommend that 
in all critical cases the safest co-urse is to employ a competent vet- 
erinary surgeon, if available. 




igin of the lacteal ducts 
in villus. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

Inflammation. 

Inflammation is an increased action of the blood-vessels. The 
consequence is an increased amount of blood to the part. 

1. The Heat. This is an invariable symptom, being always 
present to a greater or less degree. It is produced by the more 
rapid oxidation going on, consequent on the increased quantity of 
blood circulating in the parts immediately surrounding. 

2. Redness is due to the increased determination of the blood 
to the part, the distention of the hitherto invisible capillaries with 
red blood, and sometimes, when extensive, to the extravasation of 
blood from the bursting of the thin walls of the vessels. 

3. Pain. The pain in an inflamed part is almost the first and 
most characteristic symptom. It is due to the tension of the 
tissues and implication of the nerves and nerve centers. The 
degree of pain varies according to the seat of the inflammation 
and the degree of its intensity. The more sensitive the part, the 
more painful will it be under inflammation. Thus, it is sharp 
and cutting in inflammation of serous membranes, dull and gnaw- 
ing in diseases of bones, and burning in inflammation of the skin. 
When matter is forming, the pain becomes throbbing and intense. 

4. The swelling is due to the vascular engorgement and the 
exudation of serum in the first place, and afterward the formation 
of fibrine, and in the the latter stages to the development of matter. 
The other concomitant symptoms of inflammation will be noticed 
when we come to treat of local inflammatioxis, or inflammation of 
particular organs. 

Inflammation, though regarded as a disease, is the principal 



(746) 



INFLAMMATIOlSr. 747 

agent which nature employs in repairing or rebuilding parts which 
have been injured by accidents or disease. Thus, when a fracture 
has taken place, the ^ends of the bone have to be united, inflam- 
mation is set up, lymph is thrown out around the fractured ends, 
small capillary vessels soon shoot into the coagula, from which 
bony particles are deposited ; and thus by a process of inflamma- 
tion the continuity of the parts is restored. Inflammation is often 
made use of to cure diseases and remove callous enlargements. 
Thus, when a thin opaque film is left on the eye, from a blow or 
otherwise, a stimulating wash is injected to set up inflamma- 
tion, to cause blood-vessels to shoot into it, and remove it by ab- 
sorption. We blister callus enlargements for the same purpose. 
It will thus be seen that inflammation in many cases becomes a 
remedy instead of a disease, and is in all cases a necessary and 
natural process for the repair of an injury. 

When a part presents the appearance of inflammation, becom- 
ing red, hot, tender, and swollen ; and after a time these appear- 
ances subside, without producing any alteration in the structure 
or functions of a part, it is said to have terminated in Resolution. 
When two cut surfaces are brought together, and exudation takes 
place, and the surfaces are united, as in the healing of a wound 
by the first intention, it is called Adhesion. When an inflamma- 
tory tumor, as that of Strangles, or " Horse Distemper," — at 
first, hard, hot, and painful, goes on, softens in the middle, points, 
and bursts, discharging a yellowish, creamy fluid, called pus, — 
it is said to terminate in Suppuration. 

When a part is tardy in healing, and presents an open spread- 
ing sore, with red, irregular edges, presenting a mouse-eaten 
appearance, discharging a thin, irritating pus, mixed up with the 
debris of the tissues in which it is formed, floating in serum and 
pus cells, it is said to be in a state of Ulceration. 

Gangrene, or mortification, that is, the entire death of the whole 
or part of a tissue, is apt to occur when the inflammation has been 
sudden and violent. When this has occurred, no recovery can 
take place, as the blood-vessels and tissues are destroyed; the part 
generally becomes cold, the color becomes blue or purple, a fetid 
moisture covers the surface, and noxious gases are evolved. There 
is always a red line of demarkation between the dead and living 
tissues ; and if the constitutional depression which generally ac- 



^748 DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. 

companies it does not produce death, this red line becomes con- 
verted into pus, and the dead part is removed by a process called 
sloughing. 

General Treatment. — We will now merely notice the general 
principles to be observed in the treatment of inflammation, leav- 
ing the treatment of different parts till we take them up in their 
proper place. Our first thought must be to inquire into the cause 
of the inflammation ; that being found and removed, the effects 
will soon cease, without which a cure cannot be established. Mat- 
ter may be forming in the foot, indicated by intense pain, heat, 
and great lameness. We may foment or poultice or do what we 
may ; the removal of the faulty nail must be the first step in the 
cure; and that done we will be able to attain our object by com- 
paratively slight means. 

The remedial treatment may be divided into local and consti- 
tutional. 

Local Treatment. — Our object is to produce resolution if possi- 
ble. This will be best done by placing the patient in a cool, com- 
fortable box. He must be secured, so as to give the inflamed 
part complete rest ; and then the constant and copious application 
of cold water, cooling lotions, and freezing mixtures, will retard 
and often arrest the inflammatory process. Cold, to be of any 
service, must be kept up for several hours, otherwise the reaction 
it produces will do more harm than good. Should this notarrest 
its progress, and the inflammation becomes accompanied by pain 
and throbbing, heat must be substituted. Hot fomentations and 
poultices soften and relax the tissues, thus opening the pores, and 
encouraging the formation of matter, which, when matured, must 
be opened and allowed to escape.* 

It is also advisable in severe cases to give a slight purging 
ball; and if much fever, give warm drinks and a little fever 
medicine. When as in sprain of the tendons, instead of going on 
to suppuration, the swelling becomes callous, the inflammatory 
action subsides, leaving the effusion unabsorbed. In this stage, 
and only when heat and tenderness are gone, should blisters be 

* This is the course laid down by practitioners in general ; but In my experience 
I have found that where there was much inflammation and pain, it was always ad- 
visable to use hot fomentations, and even repeating persistently until its severity 
could be relieved, at the close leaving on the cloths until cool. 



INFLAMMATION?. 749 

applied. The severity of the counter-irritant must be regulated 
by the site, condition, and nature of the inflammation. 

The remedies which are used to arrest the inflammatory pro- 
cess are called Antiphlogistics, the most important of which are 
blood-letting, purgatives, sedatives, and diuretics. Blood-letting, 
which has now come almost into disuse, was at one time looked 
upon as the sheet-anchor in the treatment of inflammation. 
Without entering iuto any discussion of the subject, we will simply 
remark that, though from the abuse which was made of this 
operation, by being employed unnecessarily, when milder and 
more simple measures might do, frequently producing injurious 
results, it has justly been dispensed with; yet we are convinced 
that to abandon the practice entnely would be to deprive our- 
selves of a valuable remedy in checking inflammation. 

We will meet with cases in which bleediug will be found very 
useful, not only in checking the inflammatory process, but in pro- 
motiug the absorption of medicinal agents. At the same time we 
are convinced that, in the majority of cases in which it is practiced 
it is useless, and often injurious, prostrating the patient already 
reduced by disease. When bleeding is resorted to, it must be 
speedily extracted from a large orifice to make any impression on 
the system ; and the quantity must be regulated by the efiect on 
the pulse, rather than by the quantity withdrawn. It is only in 
the earher stages that this operation is wai'ranted; it should never 
be resorted to in any case showing a tendency to weakness. 

Purgatives are very beneficial, and mustbe given early. They 
prevent constipation, — a symptom very frequently attendant on 
inflammation, — besides emptying the system of noxious matters, 
stimulating the sluggish secretions, and draining ofi* impurities 
from the blood. 

Sedatives are invaluable in extensive inflammations, by sub- 
duing the action of the heart. They lessen the fever, and keep 
down constitutional excitement. They have the advantage over 
blood-letting as antiphlogistics, inasmuch as they can be kept up 
much longer, and do not reduce the strength unduly, to harbor 
which we cannot be too careful. Fleming's tincture of aconite, 
opium, calomel, digitalis, and belladonna are the principal sedatives 
used. 

Diuretics reduce fever by evacuating the system of fluids, and 







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DISEASES OE THE BONES. 751 

by stimulating the secretions in the kidneys and skin. Small and 
repeated doses of nitrate of potash (salt petre), bitartrate of pot- 
ash, sweet spirits of nitre, dilute acids, etc., by their cooling action, 
and by favoring absorption, tend, greatly to reduce fever and 
relieve inflamed parts. Nothing tends more to success in the 
treatment of inflammation than attention to diet and regimen. 
The comfort of the patient must be attended to ; he should have a 
cool, roomy, loose box; and laxative, easily digested food, such as 
green food, bran mashes, etc., should be given so as to keep the 
bowels open. 

Diseases of the Bones. 

The skeleton of a horse is made up of 242 bones; a,nd as these 
bones are the hard frame- work of the animal body, serving for 
the support and attaclnnent of the softer textures and the protec- 
tion of delicate organs, they are consequently liable to the same 
accidents and diseases as the other parts of the body. They are 
composed of animal and earthy matters, in the proportion of one- 
third of the former to two-thirds of the latter. They are covered 
externally by a sensitive and vascular membrane called the peri- 
osteum, and lined internally by a similar membrane called the en- 
dosteum. They enter into the formation of the jomts, their ends 
being held together by the ligaments, and their adjoining surfaces 
being covered by cartilage or gristle, with a lubricating fluid be- 
tween, called synovia, or joint oil, to prevent friction and facilitate 
the motion of the joint. 

Diseases of the bones are not very numerous in the lower 
animals; the most common are Exostosis, in which we have an 
enlargement or bony tumor thrown out on the surface of the bone; 
when between two bones, and 'uniting them together, it is called 
Anchylosis Caries, generally defined to be an ulceration or disin- 
tegration of the bony texture ; JS'ecrosis, which is the entire death 
of the whole or part of a bone; Osteosarcoma, which is a disease 
more particularly of the ox tribe, in which we have a tumor on 
the bone, partly bony and partly fleshy, occurring commonly on 
jaws or ribs; and Enchondroma, consisting of a cartilaginous or 
gristly tamor on a bone ; it is more common in man, but is also 
seen in cattle, and occasionally in the horse. 



752 DISEASES AND THEIll TREATMENT. 

( Anchylosis of Bone. 

I 

Anchylosis is simply extensive exostosis, in which we have the 
ends of two or more bones united by bony matter, as shown in 
ring-bone, spavin, splint, etc. 

Symptoms are enlargements round the joint, which is stiff and 
inflexible, and in some cases the animal is lame. 

Treat7)ient. — If there is lameness, blister or fire, as may be 
thought necessary, so as to complete the union of parts. The mo- 
tion of the joint cannot be restored by any treatment. 

Caeies of Bone. 

Caries is generally defined to be ulceration or disintegration of 
the bony texture, and is supposed to be ulceration of the soft tis- 
sues ; but this is not, histologically speaking, correct. We find in 
caries the bone undergoes several very marked changes. It de- 
creases in density (owing to the decrease in the proportion of or- 
ganic matters entering into its composition), and presents a peculiar 
worm-eaten appearance, which enables us always to recognize a 
carious bone in the dried state. See specimens in chapters on Na- 
vicular-Joint Lameness, and Laminitis. 

Causes. — It may arise from whatever may produce inflamma- 
tion of the bone, or arrests or suspends its nourishment. It is a 
frequent sequel of fracture in the ribs, sometimes from neglect or 
mismanagement of poll-evil, or fistula of the withers; in cattle, 
sometimes from " foul of the foot." Whatever destroys the perios- 
teum may produce caries. 

Symptoms. — The surrounding tissues are swollen; there is an 
opening into the diseased bone, from which acrid, bad-smelling 
matter discharges, in which float speculse of disintegrated bone. On 
examining the bone, it presents a fungus, which readily bleeds 
when touched; on pressing the finger into it, sharp processes of 
bone are felt, which are the bone breaking up. The bone is easily 
punctured with a probe or knife. 

Treatm^ent. — This, in most cases, is a very tedious afiair. In 
the first place the wound must be freely opened, and the parts 
touched with dilute hydrochloric acid several times a day. Min- 
eral and vegetable tonics m-ust be given. Where practicable, as 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 753 

on the withers, the diseased portion should be cut off with a fine 
saw. Occurring in a joint, we must endeavor to produce anchy- 
losis of the joint, the treatment of which has been explained as for 
spavins, etc. 

Neceosis of Bone. 

Necrosis is generally defined to be the entire death or mortifica- 
tion of a bone. It differs from caries, in which the bone is dis- 
charged in particles; whereas in necrosis not unfrequently the 
whole bone dies and becomes encased in a new bone of exactly 
the same shape, which is perforated by numerous holes, through 
which the old bone exfoliates. 

Causes. — In man it not unfrequently arises from constitutional 
causes, — scrofula, etc. ; out in the lower animals it generally arises 
from local causes, mechanical injuries, extensive destruction of the 
surrounding soft parts, especially if it involves the artery supply- 
ing nourishment to the bone. In young thoroughbred horses, we 
are familiar with it from sore shins, which arises from the animal 
being put in training too young. The concussion sets up inflam- 
mation of the periosteum, which may be followed by caries, but 
more commonly necrosis of the cannon bone. 

SyTYiptoms. — The external appearances do not differ very 
materially from caries. We have sinuses penetrating the bone, 
from which there is a copious discharge of most offensive-smelling 
matter, in which are occasionally discharged pieces of dead bone 
which have escaped through the holes in the new bone. This is 
called the process of exfoliation. It is easily distinguished from 
caries by the surface of the bone not being worm-eaten, but 
smooth, and studded with numerous holes. Again, it is not soft, 
as in caries ; it cannot be punctured with the probe, and it is as 
heavy, if not heavier, than in health. 

Treat7)ient. — It must be treated on the same principle as 
caries. The sinuses must be kept open, frequently washed out, 
and some stimulant injected, as hydrochloric acid (diluted), and 
tonics, and good food must from the first be given. 

48 





754 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

Exostosis, or Bony Enlargement. 

Exostosis is, in general, the consequence of periostitis, or in- 
flammation of the vascular membrane 
covering the bone, though it doubtless 
also arises from other causes. It some- 
times comes on without haviug attracted 
the least attention, or produced the least 
apparent disturbance to the animal, and 
may appear on any bone in the body, or 
on any part of a bone, sometimes so small 
as to escape observation altogether, and 

,. . 1 Ti 1 Fig. 641.— An 

Fig. 640.-EX- sometimes IS very large. It^ may be ^^^^^^^.^^ ^^ 
ostosis. caused by external inj ury, or it may be bony eniarge- 
1 Splint- 2 3 the result of constitutional disturbance, ment below 
Enlargements more commonly the former. Its nature, *^® ^°^^* 
caused by in- causes, symptoms, and treatment will be better un- 
■'^^^' derstood by taking the most common example of 

splint, spavin, and ringbone. 

Splint, or Splent. 

Splint is a hard, bony tumor occurring on the inside of the 
shank or cannon-bone of the fore leg, usually well up near the 
knee, which is well represented by Fig. 642. It is situated partly 
on the splint-bone (from which it takes its name), and partly 
on the cannon. Young horses are most subject to splints. The 
periosteum in them being more vascular than in old animals, it 
is more liable to inflammation, which is very readily induced in 
the unsolidified bones of the young horse when exposed to con- 
cussion or external violence. It occurs in the inside, because the 
center of gravity falls through that part; when there is splint or 
enlargement on the outside, it is usually caused by an injury. 
Sometimes the opposite foot striking the part wUl cause so much 
inflammation as to produce considerable soreness and lameness, 
followed by thickening and enlargement of the part. 

Symptoms. — At the start there may be no enlargement, nor 
anythiug to indicate the seat of trouble. The horse appears aU 
right on a walk or on soft ground ; but if moving rapidly on a 
hard road, and especially down hill, considerable lameness will be 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 



755 



shown. Running the fingers along the edge of the bone from the 
knee down, and pressing with the ends of the fingers, inflamma- 
tion or enlargement will 
soon be discovered, both 
hj heat and tenderness, 
and in time by enlarge- 
ment. 

Treatment. — If the in- 
flammation is up near the 
joint, it will usually be 
more serious, and cause 
more lameness; but as a 
general thing, splints re- 
quire but very little treat- 
ment, and in time will get 
well themselves if let alone. 
During the acute stage, 
treat simply with coohng 
applications. Cold water 
turned for some time from 
a pump or by other means 
of letting a steady stream 
strike the part, which 

should be continued for at least fifteen minutes, and repeated 
two or three times a day, would be best. If this is not done, 
then tie several thicknesses of cloth around the part, and keep wet; 
but this will not be so good as the first method. The following is a 
favorite remedy for any local inflammation: — 

2 drachms muriate of am.monia. 

2 ounces vinegar. 

2 ounces water. 

4 ounces spirits of wine. Mix. 

The simplest and quickest way of relieving the lameness, and 
that which is now practiced very generally by veterinary surgeons, 
is to cut through the periosteum over the part, -This is done by 
catching up the skin between the thumb and finger at the lower 
edge of the splint, and with a knife or other instrument make an 
incision in it; then pass up under it a probe-pointed bistoury, or 




Fig. 643.— Splint, and 
small wind-gall. 



Fig. 643.— a 

splint after 

cure. 



756 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

a common nicking -knife, to the top, and cut down to the bone. 
The part may now be treated as for simple inflammation; after- 
ward, simply by cooling applications. The usual treatment ls, 
after the acute stage has passed oftj to clip the hair and blister 
once or twice. Or, a more effectual way would be by firing, the 
best way of doing which is by the pyro-puncture process ; but this 
is seldom necessary. 

I give several excellent remedies for splints and ordinary en- 
largements, either of which may be used; also a number under 
the head of Special Remedies, given near the close of this book, all 
of which are very good. The following is also used with much 
success: — 

1 ounce oil of origanum. 
1 ounce oil of turpentine. 
J ounce of alcohol. 

To be applied night and morning, for a few days at a time. 

Spavin. 

There is so much misconception among people generally about 
the nature of spavin and its cure, that I will include such illustra- 
tions as will show clearly the character and location of the disease. 
I first give various views of the hock, with an explanation of the 
different parts. Also views of specimens of a bad condition of 
spavin ; first, a union of all the bones of the hock without 
any enlargement; next, the same condition with a large, bony 
deposit, the result of long-continued inflammation of the parts. 
This enlargement is what is called a spavin. Many pretend 
to be able to cure spavin by a medicine that will take off the 
bunch, claiming that it is simply a form of detached growth, and by 
removing this a complete cure will be effected. The fallacy of this 
pretension would be better understood could the specimens from 
which the illustrations are taken be examined. 

The remedies generally used are nitrate of silver, corrosive sub- 
limate, arsenic, muriatic, sulphuric, and nitric acids, or their com- 
binations with other medicines of less severe character. These 
medicines applied to the surface deaden or destroy the skin and 
sub-tissues of the part, which, in the course of a week or two, 
sloughs off, leaving a bad sore. The operator exhibits this sloughed 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 



757 



off part, or a piece of cartilage prepared for the purpose, which 
he claims is the spavin. Or the medicine may be so prepared 
as to act as a severe blister. In any case, the unsuspecting 
owner is usually induced to pay a liberal sum, either as pay for 





Fig. 644. — ^Back inside view of the 
bones of the hock. 



Fig. 645. — Front outside view of the 
bones of the hock. 



a. Tibia; &. Os calcis; c. Astragalus; d. Cuboides; e. Navicular; /. Outer 
cuneiform ; g. Middle cuneiform ; h. Splint ; i. Cannon, or shank. 

the medicine, or to meet expenses, etc. This game is beiug played 
constantly all over the country. 

There are innumerable patent cures for spavins, and concom- 
mitant difficulties, which are usually nothing more than ordinary 
blisters which act merely as counter irritants. In fact all the 
great secrets for^curing spavins, etc., are but mere pretensions of 
the charlatan, and should deceive no one. During my early ex- 
perience I frequently paid large prices for these pretended cure- 
alls., which did little more than convince me of the extent of 
imposition practiced in this way, until I had no confidence in any 



T58 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMEJ^T. 



one professing to doctor horses. Becoming finally acquainted with 
a well-known veterinary surgeon, Dr. Wm, Somerville, of Buffalo, 

New York,* I employed him to give 
me a private course of lectures, in- 
structing me in the principles and 
treatment of the most common caus- 
es of sickness and lameness in horses, 
and I spent nearly a year in obtain- 
ing this knowledge. 

At the commencement of these 
lectures there were three interesting 
cases of spavin for treatment, two 
of them from distant cities. He ex- 
plained, among other thing-s, that 
he charged one hundred dollars each 
for treating these cases, guarantee- 
ing a cure without blemishing; and 
that were the treatment for these 
cases understood by the local veter- 
inary surgeons, whose charges were 
comparatively nominal, they would 
not have been sent to him at such 
large expense for treatment and 
shippmg. 

The better to explain the nature 
of spavins, "I quote from the best 
description I can find of this disease 
and its causes: — 

" There are two distinct kinds of 
bone spavin : The first is in all re- 
spects similar to splint, and arises 
from inflammation of the periosteum. 
It frequently comes on insidiousi}' 
without causing much annoyance. 
The other form, arising from inflam- 
mation of the internal structures of 
Fig. 646.-Bones of leg and foot. ^^^ hock-joint, is frequently attended 

by caries or ulceration, and from the 

first produces intense pain and lameness, when the bones rub on one 

another. 




* I give his exact method of treatment iu the first method of firing. 



DISEASES OP THE BONES. 



759 



" The hock -joint corresponds to the heel in man, and has no 
fewer than ten bones entering into its formation, an acquaintance 
with the arrangement of 
which is necessary be- ^^^g-^c^^^v 

fore the complexities of 
hock diseases can be un- 
derstood. The bones of 
the leg, (see Fig. 647,) 
the shank-bone g, and 
the two small splint 
bones behind A, support 
the lower layer of the 
bones of the hock. The 
cube-bone d rests prin- 
cij^ally on the shank - 
bone, and in a slight de- 
gree on the outer splint- 
bone. The middle 
wedgebone / rests en- 
tirely upon the shank- 
bone, and the smaller 
wedge-bone (not seen in 
the cut) presses in a very 
slight degree on the 
shank-bone, but princi- 
pally or almost entirely 
on the inner splint- 
bone. Then the splint- 
bone sustains a very un- 
equal degree of concus- 
sion and weight. Not. 
only is the inner one 
placed more under the 
body, and nearer the 
center of gravity, but it 
has almost the whole of 
the weight and concus- 
sion communicated to 
the smaller cuneiform 
bone carried on to it. It 
is not, therefore, to be 
wondered at that, in 
the violent action of this joint in galloping, leaping, heavy draught, 
and especially in young horses, and before the limbs have become 
properly knit, the inner splint-bone, or its ligaments, or the sub- 
stance which connects it with the shank-bone, should suffer injury." 

Different views of the bones of the hock can be seen more 
clearly by referring to Figs. 644, 645, in the first part of this 
chapter. Also Figs. 648-651 show the various changes of struct- 




FiG. 647, — Bones of the hock enlarged. 



760 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



ures produced. Figs. 648, 649 were copied from two interesting 
specimens loaned the writer by Prof. Cressy, of Hartford, Ct. 

The causes of spavin 
are numerous — altered 
bearing, predisposition 
from conformation or 
mal-conformation of 
the limb, but proceed- 
ing mainly from hard 
work, sprains, or any 
cause which excites in- 
flammation of this 
part. But the most 
common cause lies in 
the breeding of horses, 
as very often a colt is 
bred from a spavined 
sire or dam, or both, 
when the colt is sure to 
inherit the same defect. 




Fig. 648.— Union of all 
the bones of the hock 
without enlargement. 



Fig. 649.— The same, 

with excessive bony 

enlargement. 



SymptoTYis. — The first 
symptom usually shown m 
spavin is a stiff moving on 
the toe, which causes a pe- 
culiar quick catching up of 
the leg, especially in trot- 
ting. This varies according 
to the amount of inflamma- 
tion and its location, from 
being scarcely noticeable at 
first, and passing off" entirely 
after going a little ways, to 
severe lameness or stiffiiess 
of the hock, which greatly 
improves or disappears when 
warmed up during a sharp 




Fig. 650. Fig. 651. 

Showing a bad condition of spavin. 



DISEASES OP THE BONES. 



761 




Fig, 652.— Healthy hock 
dissected. 



Fig. 653, — Diseased hock 
dissected. 



drive of a few miles, but appearing much worse after such a drive 
when the blood is again cooled. The hock is observed to be less 
freely used than 
the other. He 
is worse on the 
hard road. He 
limps consider- 
ably when he 
strikes his toe on 
a stone or the 
ground. If the 
leg be taken up 
and the j oint 
forcibly extend- 
ed or flexed, he 
will limp quite 
badly. Spav- 
ined horses gen- 
erally lose con- 
dition, and from the pain caused by rising they frequently stand 
for a long time. 

If it is the result of a strain, causing acute inflammation, the 

lameness will not pass off by ex- 
ercise so readily as it will after 
it becomes chronic. 

An enlargement usually 
makes its appearance from the 
fifth to the sixth week. Any 
prominence can be seen by 
standing in front of the horse 
about three or four feet from 
Fig, 654.— Action Fig. 655,— Action of the shoulder, and looking back 
when natural. badly sprained leg, ^^^^^ ^^^ ^^^-^^ ^^, ^^ ^^^^^_ 

ing behind the horse, and looking forward across the hock. 

The effort the horse makes to relieve the heels by walking 

upon the toe, indicates the necessity of removing the shoe, raising 

the heel-calks, hammering down or cutting off the toe-calks, and 

rounding the toe. 

Care must be taken not to mistake a natural fullness, known 




762 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



as " rough hocks "; and it is always advisable to compare the one 
hock with the other. We frequently have inflammation or spavin 
uniting the small bones without the least 
outward enlargement. Fig. 648. 

Quite often, before any enlargement 
appears, the trouble may be mistaken for 
hip lameness. But in this difficulty there 
is a peculiar dragging motion, and for 
want of muscular action the hip is some- 
times fallen in or wasted ; while in spavin 
the leg is lifted and brought forward 
easily, traveliug mostly on the toe, and 
shows marked improvement by exercise. 
Treatment. — If there is heat during 
the first few days, use cooling applica- 




Fig. 656. — Showing situa- 
tion of bone-spavin ; a shallow 
groove being left in the os- 
Bifle deposit for the passage of 
the oblique tendon of the flex- 
or metatarsi, immediately un- 
der which the spavin is situa- 
ted. — Williams^ Surgery. 





Fig. 657.— a healthy 
hock. 



Fig. 658.— a Jack 
spavin. 



tions, such as an ounce of sugar of lead to half a pail of ice-water, 
about two weeks, when the inflammation may pass oflT. A dose 
of physic may also be given. Or a very simple way, and accord- 
ing to my judgment the best, is to throw a strong stream of cold 
water against the part for twelve or fifteen minutes, repeating 
two or three times a day as before explained. If past the first 
stage, and the case has become chronic, the only reasonable treat- 
ment is counter irritation and rest, or keeping up sufficient local 
inflammation, without dissolving or bhstering the skin, to arouse 



DISEASES OF THE BOI^ES. 



763 



nature sufficiently to produce anchylosis, or a union of the bones 
involved. 

There are two methods of treatment for this: First, if not very 





Fig. 659. — Small spavin. 



Fig. 660. — Ordinary spavin. 



serious, by blistering. Second, by what is termed " firing." This 
is done in two ways : First, by burning lines over the skin with a 
feather-edged iron sufficiently close and 
deep to produce an extensive external 
inflammation, but without breaking or 
destroying the skin. Second, by burn- 
ing small holes into and around the dis- 
eased parts. On the following page are 
given a few of the best practical reme- 
dies. 

Blistering is adapted for only simple 
cases, so that when serious, firing is the 
most reliable and efifectual treatment. 
In case of either blistering or firing, the 
hair should first be clipped from two to 
three inches above and below the en- 
largement, and out to the middle of the ^*^' '"" ^^^ ^^^^ spavin, 
hind and fore part of the leg. A favorite blister used by one of 
the best practitioners in the country is prepared and applied as 
follows: — 




•764 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. 

3 drams of biniodide of mercury. 
1 dram of iodide of potass. 
1^ drams of iodine in crystals, pulv. 
1 ounce of blue ointment (mercurial). 

1 ounce of lard. 

Mix, and apply to the seat of the spavin three days. When the parts 
become sore, omit the treatment for the same length of time ; then apply 
once in three days for two weeks, after which stop all treatment. 

Or either of the following blisters may be used, which are 
among the yevy best: — 

• 1 ounce finely powdered cantharides. 

2 drams powdered euphorbium. 

1 ounce lard. 

2 ounces tar. 

Mix. This is a very strong blister, and is regarded as very good. 

Another favorite prescription is: — 

2 drams corrosive sublimate. 

1 ounce lard. 
•^ ounce tar. 

2 drams cantharides. 

The following will also be found efficient: — 

Equal parts of biniodide of mercury and cantharides, and 
three parts each of tar and lard. 

The blister should be thoroughly rubbed on with the hand 
about ten minutes. Twenty-four hours afterward apply a little 
vaseline or oil, and repeat night and morning until the action 
subsides. This will prevent the skin from cracking as well as 
lessen the pain. After which, wash with castile soap and warm 
water. In no case should more than one leg be blistered at a 
time, especially if the horse is thin skinned and sensitive, as it 
produces serious disturbance and fever. A variety of prescriptions 
for blisters will be found under the head of the best remedies 
used, if it is desired to use blisters; also the most famous secret 
quack cures will be found under that head ; but it is not advisable 
to use them. 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 



765 




LiG. 662. — Feather-edge firing-iron. 
Three-fourths size. 



Firing. 

For firing, put the horse in stocks. If this is not convenient, 
the next best way is to bring a rope around the neck and fasten 
to the weU leg ; 
or still better, 
buckle a soft 
strap around 
the fetlock, 
and from a 
ring attached 
to the strap, 
pass a rope 
around the 
neck of the 
horse and draw 
short enough 

to raise the foot from the ground. Next put on a twitch, 
with the stick part at least twenty inches long ; it should 
be so arranged as not to hurt the horse until the instant 
of touching with the iron, when the head should be 
thrown up a little with a slight jerking motion, to divert 
his attention from the pain of the firing. 

I give two illustrations of the firing part of the iron, 
reduced in size about one-third. The larger the iron, the 
longer it will retain the heat. The blade should be of 
steel (of the form given in the illustration), a little more 
than a quarter of an inch thick at the back, and grad- 
ually thinned down to the edge, which should be about 
one-sixteenth of an inch in thickness, and nicely rounded. 
The handle may be nothing more than a straight round 
bar of iron, from sixteen to seventeen inches long and 
turned back at the end. It is necessary to have at least 
two irons, so that while one is being used, the other can 
be heating. It should be heated to a dull red color, and 
when taken from the fire the edge quickly run over a TTq 
board or plank to make it smooth. When the edge 
is turned dark, draw perpendicular lines on the leg, as shown in 
Fig. 664, from top to bottom. They should be about two inches 



766 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



apart at the top, and not drawn deeply. Lay the edge where 
desired to start from, and draw steadily and gently to the bottom. 
Then commence at the top and make cross lines, obliquely, about 
half an inch apart. Start the point of the iron from the line at 
the right or left, and draw toward the center, as shown in Fig. GQ4!. 
The skia should not be penetrated or cut through, as it would 
leave a blemish. The cuticle is simply to be destroyed, and a dark 
brown impression left upon the skin, from which there will exude 
a glutinous substance soon after the operation. If the iron is red 
or too hot, there will be great danger of burning through ; though 





Fig. 664. -\ .„w of l.nes as they 
should be made with feather- 
firing-iron. 



Fig. 665. — Bad method of fii-ing. 
The lines cover too small a 
surface. 



if the operator is dextrous he can use it quite safely by drawing 
it proportionately light and quick, but the work cannot be so well 
done as with an iron that is of a dull red color, or quite dark at 
the edge. With such an iron, if the first line is not drawn quite 
deep enough it can be repeated untU the right depth upon the 
cuticle is obtained, which will be indicated by its color. If the 
lines are drawn much nearer than half an inch, there will be 
danger of sloughing, while if too far apart there will be propor- 
tionately less inflammation produced. They should be of a cer- 
tain depth and distance apart, and crossed as little as possible to 
avoid breaking the skin. If this is done neatly, when the healing 
process takes place, the creases formed by the iron will be drawn 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 767 

together, the hair grown over, leaving no visible trace of the 
firing. After the operation the horse should be put away in a 
box-stall. On the following day a little grease, vaseline, or oil 
should be rubbed over the part, which will keep it soft and pre- 
vent cracking. This may be repeated at any time afterward, 
should it appear too dry. Should any of the cracks break and 
threaten to make a sore, dust on a little of the magic healing 
powder, which will ^stop it immediately unless very severe. No 
bandaging or any such means should be resorted to. Simply 
see that the horse does not bite or rub the parts. 

This method of firing is the one that has been most generally 
used. It is very painful to the horse, and re- 
quires considerable practice to do it well, al- 
though there is no particular sleight or secret 
in doing it beyond making the lines over 
rather a large surface, and as near each other 
as can safely be done without causing so 
much inflammation as to extend across the 
division and blemish by breaking or destroy- 
ing the skin between. The next point is 
depth of the firing. This, can be learned reli- 
ably only by practice. The deeper the firing, 
the more extensive the inflammation pro- fig. 666.— Dots showing 
duced, though in no case should it be carried usual number and lo- 
deep enough to break the skin, as this will nation of punctures 
surely cause a blemish, while in very slight ^^ ^'^^°^' 

firing there will be proportionately less inflammation, and to that 
degree less effective. 

The Pyro-punctxjeing Process. 

The method of firing now found to be most effective for this 
difiiculty, and that used most generally by the best practitioners, is 
the pyro-puncturiug process. It is much easier done, more simple, 
not so liable to blemish" and far more effective. I give two forms 
of iron ; one Representing about three-sixteenths of an inch, the 
other about an eighth of an inch or less in diameter. The rule is, 
the larger the iron the farther apart must the holes be made, and 
the smaller the iron the closer together. The principle is to make 
the punctures as near as can be done safely without producing so 




768 



DISEASES AJSTD THEIE TEEATMBNT. 



much inflammation as to cause the skin to break or slough between 
them. The average distance apart is from three-fourths to one 
inch for the larger iron, and half an inch for the smaller iron, ob- 
serving not to go near the vein. 

If the horse is valuable it is best to use the smaller iron, as there 





Fig. 667.— Small Pyro- 
puncturing iron. 



Fig. 668.— Large Pyro- 
puncturing iron. 



Fig. 669. — SmaU Pyro- 

puncturing iron. The 

wire represented too small. 

is less danger of blemishing. The part of the iron used should be 
sufiiciently long to enable pxincturing as deep as desirable. I give 
illustrations of two such irons; one representing the round part 
drawn out with considerable bulb behind to give suflicient body 
to retain heat; the other a bulb of iron with a hole punched, into 
which is fitted a piece of steel or iron wire of suitable size. These 



DISEASES OF THE BOT^TES. 769 

fine pointed irons for pyro-puncturing should be used only when 
at a white heat, and never when cooled to a red heat. The i-eason 
for this is that there is much less pain felt when the iron is at a 
white heat, as the sensibility is almost immediately destroyed. It 
is desirable to have three or four irons heating at once, so as to 
be sure of having one continually at white heat. 

The method of using it is to barely touch the skin ajb first to 
mark the points to be punctured, which should be extended out 
some little distance beyond the line of enlargement or immediate 
seat of trouble (as shown in Fig. 666). Then repeat, burning 
much deeper each time until the holes are made to a depth of 
about three-eighths of an inch, more or less, according to the 
severity of the case. Where there is much enlargement, penetrate 
to the bone proper over that part. When the firing is complete, 
rub on thoroughly a strong blister. The following simple Spanish 
fly blister is good: — 

1 ounce Spanish flies. : 
J ounce liquid tar. 

2 o^^nces lard. 

Mix, and rub on thoroughly from five to ten minutes, putting on a pretty- 
thick application, and leaving on about forty-eight hours, when wash off 'with 
warm water and soap. When dry, rub on some grease or lard; and let the 
animal rest three weeks. 

The principle is to keep the horse quiet long enough to give 
time for exudate to be thrown out and unite the parts in- 
volved, and this requires from three to five or eight weeks, and in 
some obstinate cases possibly even longer, depending upon age; 
the younger, the more easily and quickly this will be done, while 
the older the horse, and the less constitution, the slower and more 
difiicult it will be to do. In any event, it must be continued 
or repeated, until the lameness disappears, after which work mod- 
erately for a while. 

If, after a couple of months or so, there is any perceptible 
lameness or soreness, an ordinary biniodide of mercury blister may 
be applied once or twice, as the case requires, or the firing may 
be repeated, as before stated. The point is to keep up suflicient 
counter irritation to make the cure complete. It will also aid in 
removing any enlargement that may remain. 

49 



770 



DISEASES AND THBIE TEEATMENT. 



EiNG-BONE. 

The treatment for ring-bone, splints, curbs, and spavins is 
practically the same. If there is inflammation, the result of recent 





Fig. 670. — Joint anchylosed in ring- 
bone, witliout enlargement. The 
roughened appearance of the Fig. 671. — Ringbone. The joint anchy- 

bone the result of inflamma- losed and enlarged, 

tion of the periosteum. 

strain, use cooling applications, and give the horse rest until it 
passes off, when counter irritation by blister- 
ino- or firing must be resorted to. 

A ring-bone is a bony excrescence, or en- 
largement, about the pastern, most frequently 
occurring in the hind leg. Sometimes it does 
not cause much lameness, while again the 
lameness may be very severe, and perhaps in- 
curable. This will depend much upon the lo- 
cation of the enlargement upon the joint. 
Should it be upon the center of the bone, it 
may not occasion any trouble ; but if upon 
the margin of the joint, it is liable to cause 
much lameness. Fig. 671, taken from a pho- 
tograph, is a front view of an enlarged an- 

^^' ' ' „ .°°^' ^/"^^ chvlosed ioint, or ring-bone; Fig. 672 is a 
section of jomt after -^ .i ' o ^ o 

anchylosis. view of another specimen cut through the 




DISEASES OF THE BONES. 



771 



center, '.showing the joint grown solid. I include an illustration of 
quite a bad ring-bone, and the same clipped, lined, and also dotted 
to show how the firing should be done by the pyro-puncturing 
process. 

At first there may be a somewhat tender and yielding enlarge- 
ment, which, in the course of time, becomes a hard bony formation. 





Fig. 673.— Ring-bone as it usually 
appeal's. 



Fig. 674. — As a ring-bone should be fired 
by the first method. 



Second, the horse may make an effort to relieve the pressure from 

the heels or toe, according to the location of the inflammation. 

Should he raise the heels, then raise the 

heel-calks and round the toe. If on the 

other hand he seems to throw pressure 

upon the heels, then lower the heel and 

round the toe. In the fore feet, at any 

rate, it will be necessary to round the toe 

sharply, which will greatly relieve the 

strain upon the joint by enabling the 

foot to roll easily, or turn upon the toe. 

The best method of doing this is by the 

Roburg shoe, illustrations of which are 

given in " Shoeing," and " Navicular- 

Joint Lameness." Clip the parts, as 

shown in Fig. 675, then blister or fire, as explained for spavin. 

There should be no blisterino' or firing around the heel under the 




Fig. 675. — Method of firing 

by the Pyro-puncturing 

process. 



772 



DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 



fetlock, as this would cause breaking, or an irritation of the skin, 
which would be very annoying and difficult to heal. 

Side-Bone oe False Ring-Bone. 

Side-bone, properly speaking, is not exostosis, but ossification of 
an already existing structure, it being ossification of the lateral 
cartilages of the ospedis, or bone of the foot. It is most common 
in the fore feet, especially where the pas- 
terns are short and straight. 

Symptoms. — The lateral cartilages, which 
in health are soft and flexible, become en- 
larged, project above the hoof, and are hard 
and bony. While the inflammatory process 
is going on, there is heat and pain in the 
part, and consequently lameness, which in 
most cases ceases when the ossification is 
completed; but there is always a degree of 
stiflfness observable, and the lameness is apt 
to return if the horse is much used on the 
road. 

Causes. — Short, upright pasterns predis- 
pose to them ; they are most common in heav}^ 
draught horses, used for teaming on the 
road. Sometimes it arises from a tread from 
another horse, which causes inflammation of those structures, which 
is followed by ossification of the cartilage. 

Treatment. — The same principles must be observed in all these 
cases. Rest is most essential; continued cold applications, by mak- 
ing him stand up to the fetlocks in soft clay, with cold water fre- 
quently applied, would be the proper treatment until the acute 
stage has passed, after which repeated blistering, or, if thought 
necessary, firing would be advisable. 

CUEB. 

This is a swelling upon the back part of the hock about five or 
six inches from the point (an illustration of which is given in 
Figs. 676, 678). If there is heat and tenderness, with more or less 
lameness, use cooling applications. The quickest way to reduce 
inflammation of this kind is to direct a stream of cold water against 




Fig. 



676. — A Avell-deflned 
curb. 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 



773 



the part for ten or fifteen minutes, and repeat at intervals. It 
would relieve considerably to raise the heels of the shoe, and when 
the inflammation subsides, blister repeatedly. If this does not suc- 
ceed, fire the part. 

Curbs are not usually difiicult to manage. I include a remedy 
which is very effective in removing chronic enlargements of this 
kind. It was first brought to my notice by being used upon one 
of my baggage-horses during one of my campaigns in Ohio. I 
purchased this horse cheap on account of his having a large curb, 





Fig. 677. — An ordinary curb. 



Fig. 678. — A very bad curb. 



which, though' it did not cause lameness, blemished the leg badly. 
I noticed my manager, Dr. Williams, occasionally rubbing on 
some medicine. It seemed to me like a waste of time to attempt 
doing anything for it, and so expressed myself. He said, " Wait, 
and I will show you the eflfect." He simply applied the remedy 
two or three times a week, and in two or three months, to my 
surprise, the enlargement had almost entirely disappeared. Since 
then several cases of morbid joint enlargement have been cured by 
applying this remedy occasionally for two or three months, one 
especially bad, caused by an injury down near the hoof. The fol- 
lowing is the remedy : — 

1 ounce each of oil origanum, oil of spike, 
oil of amber, spirits of tur- 
pentine, and camphor. 

Mix thoroughly, and rub on the enlargement two or three times a week. 



774 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



The following is the treatment used by one of the most suc- 
cessful veterinary surgeons in this country: — 

First, put on a high-heeled shoe, then take boiling water, and with a 
sponge have the curb well bathed for about ten minutes. Then apply the 
following liniment: — 

1 ounce aqua amonia, 

2 ounces tincture of iodine, 

3 ounces glycerine. • 
Apply to the part two or three times a day, until quite sore. Then stop 

for a few days, when repeat the medicine as before, and so continue until 



aaram sore. 



Bog Spavins and Thoeough-Pins. 



This disease may be called wind-galls of the hock, caused 
usually by strain and overwork, but principally by lunging back 
upon the hind legs. When the swelling is 
inside and front of the hock, it is called a 
bog or blood spavin. This is caused by a 
distension or rupturing of the membranes 
which cover the synovial cavity of the joint. 
The swelling is soft, and yields to the press- 
ure of the finger. 

Thorough-pin is of the same character — 
an enlargement on the back, inside of the 
upper part of the joint, where in its natural 
condition is a hollow. This swelling extends 
across under the tendon, forming a tumor 
between the calcis and thigh bone. It is 
simply a rupture of the synovial membrane 
allowing the synovia to escape. By press- 
ing upon one side, the swelling is pushed 
through to the other side; and sometimes 
in front. These enlargements 
rarely cause lameness, though sometimes they may cause inflam- 
mation of the parts involved. 

There is no satisfactory treatment for these difficulties. Blister- 
ing sharply is the treatment usually pursued. If this fails, firing 
is the last resort. There is no difficulty in bringing down an en- 
largement of an ordinary bog spavin by blistering, but as soon as 
the horse is put to work or strained in the least, it is liable to come 




Fig. 679.— Bog or blood 
spavin. 



there is connection with swelling 



DISEASES OF THE BONES. 



775 



back again. There is a remedy I have found to work with great 
success in the removal of these synovial enlargements during their 
acute stage. 

In making a campaign through Wisconsin, in 1867, one of 
my trained horses acted so rebellious oneday that I was compelled 
to force him back sharply with a whip, throwing him upon his 
haunches. Soon after the drive, when cool, he acted quite sore 
and stiff, showing quite an enlargement 
of the hock. I supposed the horse was 
spoiled. During the day a half drunken 
fellow, in looking at the horses, said that 
he could " remove that enlargement, and 
cure it." Considering the case incurable, 
I paid no attention to him at the time. 
The man feeling annoyed at the indiffer- 
ence with which he was treated, said, " I 
suppose you think I don't know anything 
about horses, but if you will take some 
soft soap and salt, rub on the part thor- 
oughly at night and wash off in the morn- 
ing for two or three times, I'll warrant 
you that will be cured." 

It occurred to me that it would do no 
harm to try the experiment, so I directed the man who had charge 
of my horses to apply the soft soap as directed. He did so, and 
next morning the swelling was greatly reduced; and after repeat- 
ing two or three times, it entirely disappeared. In consequence 
of hard driving and strains, the parts became puffed to a greater 
or less degree several times afterward, but always yielded to a few 
applications of soft soap well rubbed in. 

While this remedy will work well on acute cases, its effect is 
not satisfactory upon old, confirmed cases ; for if the enlargement 
is brought down, sharp driving or straining of the parts will usu- 
ally bring back the trouble. I consider trusses and all that sort 
of thing of no special account in this difficulty. I have been told 
repeatedly of parties who punctured these enlargements to allow 
the secretions to run out, that in each case so much inflammation, 
was excited in the joint as to cause the loss of the horse. 

Blood spavin is supposed to be caused by a distension of the 




Fig. 680.— Thorough-pin. 



776 



DISEASES AIs^D THEIE TREATMENT. 



large vein which passes through the integuments inv^olved in bog 
spavin. I do not know any distinction between them worthy of 
mention, especially as there is no treatment given other than that 
named. 

Capped Hock. 



This is an injury or bruise at the point of the 
hock, and is usually caused by striking the parts 
against some hard object. If the inflammation is 
acute, use cooling applications. When the inflam- 
mation has subsided, use any ordinary stimulant 
or blister recommended for the purpose. 

Wind-galls. 




Fig. 681. 
Capped hock. 



Wind-gall is the name given to those soft, pufiy swellings found 
at the back part of the fetlock-joint, from a supposition that they 
contained air. They consist of enlargement 
of the little sacs, or bags, which are always 
found to contain a mucous fluid wherever 
tendons pass over j oints, as at the back of the 
fetlock. This form may be called siviple 
luind-gall. In other cases, the distension is 
caused by an increased secretion and bulging 
of the capsular ligament of the joint itself. 
This form may be distinguished as compli- 
cated ^uind-gall. 

Few horses that have done any work are 
free from them, and unless dependent on some 
more serious lesion than simple distension of 
these hurscB mucoscB, they are of no conse- 
quence. 

Causes. — Hard work is the well-known 
cause of wind-gall. In rapid motion, or 
heavy draught, the friction of the tendons is 
greatly increased; consequently an increased secretion of synovia 
is required, and takes place in all synovial sacs during exercise; 
but if the action be not so violent as to strain the parts, it is speed- 
ily re-absorbed. On the other hand, if the exertion be inordinate, 




Fig. 683. 

capped hock 



An ordinary 



NAVICULAE-JOINT LAMEISTESS. 



777 



these little bursa3 mucosce become injured, inflammatioii is set up, 
and they become permanently enlarged. 

Again, the exertion may be so violent as to cause sprain of the 
tendon, which extends to the capsule, or the joint itself may suffer, 
and cause distension of the capsular ligament constituting compli- 
cated wind-gall, which is more serious. 

8y7}iptoins. — Simple wind-galls are little puffy swellings, seen 
at the sides of the tendons as they pass over the fetlock-joint, 
most common on the hind leg. They are soft even when the 
weight is thrown on them. It is very impoi"iant to be able to 
distinguish between simple and complicated, or between, the harm- 





FiG. 683. — A natural, 
healthy joint. 



Fig. QSi. — Showing 
two enlargements. 



Fig. 685. — Clearly marked con- 
dition of wind-gall. 



less and what is not harmless. If situated between the tendon 
and the suspensory ligament, it depends on distension of the 
burScB through which the tendon passes ; if it feels hard when the 
other leg is held up, and is ^^accompanied with slight lameness, the 
tendon is implicated. When placed in front of the suspensory 
ligament, between it and the bone, it is accompanied with increase 
of synovia in the j oiat itself. 

Wind-galls generally appear suddenly. 

Treatment. — There are three methods of treatment: First. 
During the acute stage they can be easily removed by any firm 
but even pressure by pads and bandages, with cold water fre- 
quently applied. 

Second, When it has been long neglected, or the case is com- 
plicated, counter irritation, or any good stimulating liniment or light 



778 DISEASES AND TllEIE TKEATMENT. 

blister may be used. The biniodide of mercury ointment may be 
well rubbed in several times, or a cantharides blister may be used. 
Third. Letting the synovial fluid out. This is done with an 
instrument called 'Hhe aspirator," which is a bottle attached to a 
small suction pump, or, more properly, a sjTinge attached to a 
bottle, and worked so as to draw out the fluid. The method of 
operating is as follows: Force the needle of the aspirator into the 
wind-gall and draw off the fluid. When it is all drawn, inject a 
little of the following solution into the part:— 

5 ounce tincture iodine. 

20 grains iodide of potassium. 

3 ounces water. 

Bandage well and keep the parts wet with cold water. The 




Fig. 686. — Graduated hypodermic syringe. 

bandages to remain on from three to five days. This produces an 
adhesive inflammation of the part. This treatment can be used 
with safety in all cases where there is enlargement of the sheaths 
of the tendons. It cannot be safely used in what is called a blood 
spavin, because there is danger of puncturing the vein, and 
secondly, may extend into the true hock-joint, which would in- 
duce so much inflammation as to produce a stiff joint, or even sup- 
puration of the coverings of the bone, which would finally destroy 
life. The hypodermic syringe, shown above, may be used. 

Naviculae-Joint Lameness. 

It is estimated that this is the cause of fully nine-tenths of aU 
serious and obscure cases of lameness in the fore-feet. I refer to 
it at the commencement of the Medical Department, page 745, as 
one of the principal causes of trouble, which it is important to 
know how to treat. If neglected, or not treated properly, in from 
three to six months, such changes of structure, or degeneration, 
take place in the parts as to make cure impossible; when it is 
termed "groggy, or chronic lameness," which of course spoils the 
horse; and when it is seen that it is the best horses, usuaUy favor- 



NAYICULAR-JOINT LAMENESS. 



779 



ites, that are perhaps worked irregularly, that are most subject to 
this lameness, the importance of being able to treat it successfully 
when it arises, can be seen; and the treatment, too, is so simple, 
and easily applied, during its early or acute stage, that it cer- 
tainly cannot be difficult or impossible, by the directions hereafter 
given, for any one to apply it. On this account I have made a special 
effort not only to make the treatment of this difficulty so full and 
comprehensive that such 
cases when they arise may be 
easily understood and attend- 
ed to promptly, but to add 
such explanations and illus- 
trations from the best author- 
ities, as wUl show the serious 
effect that may follow when 
neglected or not treated prop- 
erly. In reference to this, a 
very able author says: — 

" This is a strain that does 
more mischief than any other, 
and entirely from the circum- 
stance of its producing scarce- 
ly any lameness in the walk. 
A horse, therefore, when 
strained in the coffin-joint, 
and having no lameness, or scarcely any, in the walk, is usually 
put to work, or what is nearly as bad, is turned to grass with- 
out any regard to the situation, where he is often liable to be 
driven about. If, instead of this, it were treated like other sti'ains 
whose symptoms are more apparent, and which produce a greater 
degree of lameness, it would soon get well, and with greater cer- 
tainty than a strain in the back sinews. But as it is a strain in 
the coffin-joint, it is the most intractable kind of lameness we meet 
with, because it is nearly always neglected at its first occasion." 




Fig. 687. — As the horse usually rests his 
toe upon the ground. 



Sym/ptoms. — It sometimes occurs in an instant, as by a horse 
stepping on a round stone, running in. the field, etc., when he may 
at once be quite lame; at other times its progress is slow. Some 
peculiar formations of the foot are more subject to it than others. 
When the result of sudden strain, there will be considerable heat 
in the back part of the foot, with well-marked lameness. When 
it comes on gradually, a slight tenderness is observed, particularly 
at starting, which goes off with exercise. This gradually increases ; 



780 



DISEASES AND THBIE TEEATMENT. 



the foot is found hot, and as a result of the increased heat, con- 
traction may set in, the hoof becoming dry and brittle. He steps 
on his toe, and when standing, points his foot, that is, places his 
foot in front, resting on the toe; and if both feet are involved, 
which is not uncommon, alternating the feet. Contraction is not 

an invariable symptom, as feet 
are subject to it that are en- 
tirely free from contraction. 

Often the foot is found to be 
round and apparently healthy, 
the most careful examination 
by the owner, or smith, not 
enabling him to locate any cause 
for the trouble. In ordinary 
cases the horse will show no ap- 
parent lameness while on a 
walk ; but on a trot may flinch 
considerably, showing a great 
tendency to stumble.* Driving 
down-hill, or on a rough, cob- 
bly road, will greatly aggravate 
the lameness, because going 
down-hill increases the force of 
concussion; and a stony or un- 
even road so wrenches and 




Fig. &88. — Usual appearance of foot 
with chronic coffin-joint lameness. 



strains the joint, or exposes the frog to such incidental pressure, 
as to greatly increase the pain and soreness. In some cases of 
acute strain, the lameness may be quite marked, the horse being 
scarcely able to walk, and when he does, keeping the foot flexed 
by walking upon the toe, and when standing, resting the toe upon 
the ground. As this acute stage passes off", which will usually be in 
one or two weeks, the animal will seem to have grown much better, 
at times perhaps appear quite well, then grow suddenly worse 
again, depending upon the part of the joint involved and the road 
he is traveling on. He will go better on hard, smooth, sandy 
roads, but on soft, yielding ground, is liable to grow lamer, if the 

* In some cases, usually fast trotters, the horse may at first only point, and 
gradually show a little soreness or stiffness at starting, or what is termed bobbins — 
dropping (he head. Irritation in these cases is induced very slowly, as hereafter 
explained. The principle of treatment is the same, — prompt removal of the cause 
of irritation, developing healthy circulation in the parts, and aiding mobility. 



KAVICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 



781 



sole is thin and the frog prominent, because of the increased pres- 
sure upon the frog, and thence upon the parts involved, by the 
foot setting into the ground. As the lameness continues, more or 
less change of structure takes place in the foot, a gradual draw- 
ing in of the quarters, the foot becoming perceptibly smaller than 
the opposite one, the heels higher, the frog smaller, and the sole 
more concave, the hoof showing a more glossy, hard appearance. 
The shoe will invariably be worn round at the toe. A result that 
often follows is a shrinking or wasting of the muscles of the 
shoulder, called "sweeny," which is caused by a want of properly 
exercising them. The symptoms are about the same, so far as the 




Fig. 689. — Back view of coflan-bone and navicular-bone 
attached in place. 

lameness goes, whether the mischief has extended to ulceration or 
not, the history of the case only guiding in enabling to deter- 
mine how far this has gone. Of course these conditions will vary 
in degree, as there may be only a slight extent of ulceration, or a 
high degree of simple inflammation. Yet, in the former case, the 
lameness will not be so marked as in the latter, notwithstanding 
the prospect for recovery will be much less. 

We will now presume a horse, without any apparent cause, to 
show a little lameness, and we desire to make a careful exam- 
ination. First, is there any possible cause from recent shoeing, 
such as a badly-fitted shoe, driving the nails too close, or prick- 
ing? Let the shoe be taken off carefully, by raising each clinch 
in succession, and pulling the nails out. Now tap and examiae 
all parts of the foot carefully, and especially if there is any bruise 



782 



DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 



or com at the inner heel, or at any part of the sole, which will be 
noticeable by being red and sensitive to light tappings of the ham- 
mer, or to squeezing of the pinchers. It is always best to make 
the most thorough and careful examination, so as to give assur- 
ance of being able to point with more certainty to the difficulty 
under consideration. Pressure with the thumb over the middle of 
the flexor tendon, on its inner side or its outer, as deeply as can 

be reached in the hollow of the heel, 
the foot being bent back, causes pain ; 
or catching the foot in one hand and 
the ankle in the other, and while twist- 
ing a little, pressing against the tendon 
will cause considerable flinching. Tap- 
ping lightly upon the bar or sole, on 
each side of the frog, will cause flinch- 
ing. Next, if the horse is taken by the 
head and turned short around, he will 
show increased lameness. 

Upon an examination of these cases 
by the owner or horse-doctor, if no 
cause of trouble is discovered in the foot, 
the lameness is supposed to be in the 
shoulder. Now there is no lameness that 
reveals itself more plainly than shoulder 
lameness; because when the muscles of 
the shoulder or arm are strained or in- 
jured, the mobility is so seriously im- 
paired that the limb is lifted and brought 
forward with a sort of dragging motion. 
It is easy to see if a man were to injure his shoulder or arm, that 
with the greatest eflbrt he would be scarcely able to lift it to put on 
his coat. But were the trouble in his hand, or below the elbow, he 
could do it without the least difficulty. The eflect is the same 
upon the horse. By moving him back and forward, if the trouble 
is in the foot, or below the knee, the foot will be raised and car- 
ried forward naturally, but put down tenderly, as if trying to 
protect it from the force of concussion ; whereas, if in the shoulder, 
as explained, the mobilit}^ of the limb is greatly impaired, which 
is shown by the difficulty with which it is raised and brought 
forward. 




Fig. 690.— Posteiior view of 
bones of the foot. 



KAVICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 



78S 



I would call particular attention to these symptoms, from the 
fact that after an examination by persons who do not under- 
stand the nature of the difficulty, and finding no apparent trouble 
in the foot, the conclusion is arrived at that it must be in the 
shoulder, which is treated with liniments, blistering, etc., as ex- 
plained, without doing any good, not only punishing the horse un- 
necessarily, but occasioning a loss of valuable time. 

I would also remind, in this connection, that when the lame- 
ness continues in one foot for some time, on account of throwing 
the weight so much upon the opposite foot to relieve the lame one 
in standing or walking, there is liability to bring on the same 




Fig. 691. — Position of bones of the foot too oblique. 

a. Pastern bone ; 6, Coronary bone ; c. Os pedis, or cofiin-bone ; d. Usual 
seat of the lameness ; e. Perf orans tendon. 

trouble in the well one, — a not uncommon occurrence, — when the 
lameness will be equally marked in both fore-feet. The horse will 
go worse when the heel is lowered by putting on a thin shoe, or 
by losing the shoe, and will go better when the heel is raised, and 
especially so if the toe is rounded so as to aid mobility. 

Causes. — The coffin-joint is composed of three bones; vi^., the 
lower or pedal bone, and the navicular and pastern bones. By 
referring to Figs. 365 and 392, in chapter on Shoeing, and Figs. 
679-688, which were copied and engraved from photographs of 
a manikin, and also from a natural foot, showing different views 
of the bones, ligaments, and tendons of the parts, a good idea 



784 



DISEASES AJSTD THEIE TREATMENT. 



can be obtained of its location and character. By looking at Fig. 
679, it will be seen that the navicular bone extends across the 
back edge of the coffin-joint; at Fig. 686, that the flexot- tendon 
passes down under it, and inserts itself into the lower surface of 
the pedal bone. This supports the navicular bone when weight is 
thrown upon the limb, as the back part of the small pastern rests 
upon the navicular bone. Now, if fi'om any cause irritation is 
set up in the synovial membrane of this small bone, or of the 




Fig. 692. — Natm-al position of bones of tlie foot. 

sheath of the tendon which supports it, or of the surrounding 
parts, whether by sprain, concussion, injury, contraction, improper 
shoeing, changing the obliquity of the foot, that is, raising or low- 
ering the heel too much, allowing the toe to grow too long, or any 
cause of changing the proper adjustment of the foot, etc., the 
effect is practically the same in causing inflammation and lame- 
ness. 

The best authorities agree that the most common indirect 



NATICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 786 

causes of this lameness are raising the frog from the ground and 
contraction, I copy the remarks of an old author of high stand- 
ing on this cause, who says: — 

" When the foot is in its natural condition, the frog is its strong 
point of support; and if this support is removed by paring, or by 
the use of thick-heeled shoes, which raise the frog from all pos- 
sible contact with the ground, the support is weakened, and there 
is necessarily great strain thrown uj^on the tendon. This is caused 
by pushing the coronary against the navicular bone, and which, 
being repeated at every step or jump the horse takes, strains the 
tendons, or causes inflammation. By contraction, because in pro- 
portion to the drawing together of the heels, there will be a com- 
pressing or forcing upward of the arches of the commissures and 
horny frog against the tendon and navicular joint, impeding the 
action of the joint generally, and liable to cause inflammation of the 
synovial membrane, ulceration, and change of structure; it also 
destroys the natural position of the limb by making the pastern 
joint more perpendicular, which, as has been mentioned, increases 
the jar of the corona on the pedal bone. So that we have involved 
the lower surface of the navicular bone, its synovial membrane, the 
flexor tendon which plays over it, and sometimes the upper sur- 
face, when it is called coffin or navicular-joint lameness." 

Another author says: — 

" Disease of the navicular joint is the chief danger to be appre- 
hended from a good-looking strong foot, just as the open, flat one is 
prone to laminitis, and is rarely subject to disease of the navicular 
joint. The reason of this immunity on the one hand, and the con- 
trary on the other, is this: The open foot, with a large spongy frog, 
exposes the navicular bone and the parts in contact with it to con- 
stant pressure in the stable, so that these parts are always prepared 
for work. On the other hand, the concave sole and well-formed 
frog are raised from the ground by our unfortunate mode of shoe- 
ing, and when the whole foot is exposed to injury from battering, 
and in addition to the tendon which plays over the navicular bone 
presses it against the os coronse, the unprepared state in which this 
part is allowed to remain, is sure to produce inflammation, if the 
work is carried far enough." 

In 1816 an English veterinary surgeon, James Turner, was 
the first, after careful observations and numerous dissections, to 
call attention to the causes of this lameness and its treatment. 
His explanation is so good that I will include it also here, though 
experience has since proved, as explained, that contraction is only 
one of its causes: — 

"The next deviation from nature is the passive state to which 
the foot is submitted, at least twenty- two or twenty- three hours 

50 



•786 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 

out of twenty-four, and sometimes for several consecutive days. 
Let this be compared with the few hours during which the feet of 
a horse at pasture are in a quiescent state, and there will be no 
cause of surprise in the change of form and position, and character, 
and the state of contraction which takes place in the foot deprived 
of its natural pressure and motion. 

" The j&rst indication of contraction is the gradual displacement 
of the navicular and coffin-bones. They ascend within the hoof. An 
unnatural arch is formed by the ascent of the frog, and the delicate 
synovial membrane lining the joint is crushed and bruised by the 
very material which nature has bestowed as a defense. This bruise 
of the synovial membrane lining the joint is the veritable source of 
the complaint, the actual cause of the whole not consisting in the 
wear and tear of the part, but having its origin in rest. It is en- 
gendered in the stable, but it becomes permanently established by 
sudden violence out of it. General contraction of the foot of the 
horse may take place to a great extent with comparative impunity; 
but it is a partial contraction or pressure which is the root of evil." 

Prof. Williams, our best modern authority, in relation to the 
cause, says: — 

" I have stated my opinion that generally the alteration of the di- 
rection of the bony column by the shoe, or by a natural upright con- 
formation of pastern, is the great cause. In addition to this violent 
interference with the designs of nature, the elevation of the heels fur- 
nishes additional cause of concussion to those already stated, by 
removing the frog from the ground; the frog being elastic, tough, 
and strong, intended to touch the ground and diffuse concussion, 
as well as to pre^-ent slipping at each step the animal takes. When 
left in its natural condition, it is a large, tough, softish body, giv- 
ing way to the pressure of the fingers when manipulated, expand- 
ing each time the foot is put to the ground, the commissures at its 
sides admitting of this expansion without the other parts of the foot 
being interfered with. So long as it touches the ground, the sen- 
sitive parts within, and particularly the navicular bursa, for which 
it furnishes a soft bed, rests upon a resilient bod}'^, free from con- 
cussive danger. Besides furnishing this soft bed, it performs 
another important function, being elastic within and without, it 
assists the flexors in the first act of elevating the foot from the 
ground, and it does this in virtue of its inherent power of assuming 
its original shape Avhen the superincumbent weight is taken away 
from it. Thus, whilst on the ground, and bearing its proportion of 
weight, it is flattened from side to side, biilging into the commis- 
sures and cleft, ready at every movement, like a piece of india- 
rubber, to assume its proper form when the least portion of the 
weight is taken from it. When the flexors are acting, it becomes 
narrowed from side to side, and deeper from surface to surface, and 
during this assumption of its natural form, it gives an upward im- 
petus to the foot, which is of essential importance to its easy eleva- 
tion. The removal of this frog pressure during long periods of rest 



NAVICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 



787 



in the stable is also a fertile source of disease, because the frog be- 
comes hardened, and does not furnish a soft cushion for the bursa 
to rest upon." 

I may, in this connection, add that there may be cases of this 
disease, though somewhat rare, in feet that are weak and thin, 
which are entirely free 
from contraction. In such 
cases it is supposed the 
cause is owing to the ob- 
liquity of the joint being 
so great, that there is ex- 
cessive play upon the ten- 
don, the strain upon which 
produces irritation of the 
tendon at its connection 
with the navicular bone; 
or owing as well to the in- 
creased action of the joint, 
irritation of some of the 
soft structures is produced. 
It properly comes under the 
head of Cause of Irritation. 
But as there may be dan- 
ger of parties, especially of 
trotting men, causing di- 
rect strain and inflamma- 
tion of the part by lower- 
ing the heels too much, or suddenly, especially in the feet of 
horses that are exposed to much strain by being speeded, I will 
include the following explanations to show the impropriety and 
danger of doing so. It is stated in the chapter on shoeing, where 
thin shoes or tips are recommended, that this change must be 
brought about gradually. When traveling through Vermont, an 
intelligent trainer, who was a member of my class, wished to 
know the best method of keeping the feet of horses sound and free 
from contraction: — 

"Keep the adjustment and condition of the feet as nearly 
natural as possible," I answered, " by using thin steel shoes that 
will give the frog natural contact with the ground." 




Fig. 693. — Tendons and ligaments of tlic foot. 



788 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



"That is my idea," said he, "but while in New York City, a 
man came along and persuaded the president of one of the hoi'se 
railroad companies, where I was at the time employed, to put thin- 
heeled shoes on all his horses." 

I replied, " That would be all 
right, and an advantage for the 
average of horses; but there 
would be found an occasional 
one, perhaps one in every ten 
or twelve of them, that would 
grow decidedly lame by such 
shoeing; for if there was the 
least inflammation or weakness 
in the navicular joint or sur- 
rounding parts, giving such sud- 
den and violent contact of the 
frog upon hard-paved streets 
would aggravate the irritation 
and produce direct lameness. 
Certainly the heels of such 
horses should be kept somewhat 
raised until the invitation passed 
ofl", when the heels might be 
gradually lowered sufficiently to 
bring about a good condition of 
circulation." 

He stated in reply that about 
that proportion of the horses 
did become seriously lame; still 
they were worked right along 
without any regard to their condition. When in Bufialo, N. Y., 
I became owner of a horse that was very sore and lame, in con- 
sequence of excessive driving during the race week in that city, 
in conveying passengers to and from the track. He had been so 
shotfl as to let the frog come directly upon the ground. I found 
upon examination that the heels had been so bruised as to cause 
suppuration between the sensible and insensible frog, which was 
the cause of the trouble, and practically spoiled the horse. Now, 
putting on thin-heeled shoes would have been all right for ordin- 




FiG. 694. — Attachment of perforans 

tendon to bottom of pedal-bone. 

From manikin of the foot. 



NAVICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 



789 



ary light driving on mud roads, but when subjected to such 
severe and continued concussion, they became a direct cause' of 
irritation and disease. As a good ilkistration of this cause of 
danger, I copy the remarks of a very excellent author (White) on 
the danger of lowering the 
heels too suddenly and subject- 
ing them to severe strain: " I 
has appeared in a great nur 
ber of dissections of the feet I 
horses affected with chron 
lameness, that the small bono 
of the foot, called navicular or 
nut-bone, is diseased either on 
the surface over which the 
great tendon of the foot passes, 
or on that which articulates 
with the small pastern and 
coffin bones." In speaking of 
the cause, he says: "I once 
knew an excellent trotting- 
horse that had won several 
matches. Thin-heeled shoes 
were put on h'is feet, but it 
was soon found that he could 
no longer trot; that when 
urged he would go into a can- 
ter. The shoes were therefore 
taken off, and a common shoe 
applied, but it was too late. 
He was no lonsfer able to trot. 




Fig. 695. — Excellent view of perforans 
tendon. From photograph of 
manikin of the foot. 

And this, I have no doubt, was 



caused by inflammation of the coffin-joint, or of the parts con- 
nected with it, in consequence of lowering the heels and throw- 
ing so much stress on the tendon and navicular bone." 

In talking with an intelligent veterinary surgeon on this sub- 
ject, he referred to a case in his own practice that had strained 
the perforans tendon. The owner called him in to treat it, and 
by proper management soon relieved the lameness; but in conse- 
quence of the horse's being driven and speeded too soon, there was 
a return of the lameness, which he again treated with success. 



790 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMBNT. 




Fig. C96. — Inferior articulating surface of the navicular 
bone in a healthy condition. 



After nearly six months' rest, the horse was again put in training 
for a race, there being no indication of a return of lameness. At 
this point a new driver was employed, who took it into his head 
to put on thin-heeled shoes; the consequence was, the first time 
the horse was speeded, he again fell lame, when, notwithstanding 
all that could be done, the case became chronic and incurable. 
As the first stage is that of inflammation, the object should be 

to use such means 
as will arrest this 
most speedily, be- 
fore any alteration 
of structure takes 
place, which is usu- 
ally in from three to 
six months; for .as 
before explained, if 
allowed to go on far 
enough to produce 
a change of struct- 
ure, or caries, the 
case will be past all 
cure. 

l^reatment. — The 
first and most im- 
portant condition of 
cure is rest; hence 
the horse must be at 
once taken from all 
work; he must not 
be, as is commonly 
the case, allowed to run even in pasture, or anywhere where there 
would be any freedom to run or walk around much; give him 
simply the limits of a large, level stall. Remove the shoe by rais- 
ing the clenches, and pull out the nails one by one; then cut 
oflT or hammer down the toe-calk, and partly turn up the toe like 
the ground surface of an old worn-out shoe. Next, raise the heel- 
calks from five-eighths to three-quarters of an inch, fit the shoe 
nicely to the foot, and nail on, being careful not to wrench or 
hammer it unnecessarily in doing so. Two important points are 




Fig. 698. — Inflammation progressed so far as to 
cause caries of the bone. 



NAVICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 791 

gained by this: First. Raising the heels from the ground throws 
the articulation of the pastern bone weU forward upon the pedal 
bone, relieving pressure of the navicular bone from the tendon sup- 
porting it. Second, the removal of all pressure of the frog from the 
ground, which aggravates the inflammation, and rounding the toe, 
aids mobility, and thereby lessens the strain upon the joint. 

If there is much lameness and heat in the foot, provide a tub 
or box, in which put water as hot as can be borne with the hand, 
and suflicient to come up even with the ankle, and let the horse 
stand with the foot in it for about an hour, keeping the tempera- 
ture up to the point stated. Now take a bag, or cloth, into 
which put a sufficient quantity of bran to envelop the foot 
thoroughly, and tie loosely around the foot or ankle ; pour on hot 
water moderately, and then let the horse stand, allowing the 
poultice in the meantime to become cool. If there is much inflam- 
mation and lameness, this method of hot fomentation may be re- 
peated two or three times during the day, until all the inflamma- 
tion subsides. The usual method of applying hot fomentations is 
to take several thicknesses of blanket or ruffs, and after wrrne-ins" 
them out of water as hot as can be borne, bring them around the 
foot loosely, and repeating at short intervals as they become cool; 
or a lot of bran or mud can be put in a box, and hot water poured 
on until at the temperature desired, when the foot can be placed 
in it up to the ankle, as before explained. The general practice 
is to tie a poultice of bran around the foot, and keep wet with 
cold water until the inflammation subsides, which would be good 
treatment; but if there is much inflammation and lameness, I 
would certainly advise, as far preferable, hot fomentations con- 
tinued for about an hour, then alternating with cold, and repeated 
two or three times each day; but letting the poultice or cloths re- 
main on until cool will be sufficient for reaction from the previous 
application of heat. 

If cold applications are used, it is important that there be suffi- 
cient bran or wet cloths tied around the foot and ankle to keep 
the parts thoroughly wet and cool, until inflammation subsides, 
in addition to which the bottom of the foot should be kept stuffed 
with flax-seed meal, or anything that will aid in keeping the foot 
moist and cool. If this is done, after about a week the attack 
will usually pass off! After the acute stage has passed off", and 



792 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

the wet cloths should be kept on until that time, even if there is 
no lameness, it is good practice to apply a sharp blister around the 
heel and coronet. It is in any event necessary, and may be even 
repeated once or twice, should there still remain any lameness. 
In the meantime, as before stated, the horse should be kept quiet, 
and if there is much lameness, there should be given in the first 
place a small dose of physic, with laxative, cooling food. This is 
all that is necessary to do in any ordinary case, and especially at 
an early stage. 

It is next important not to expose the horse to conditions that 
would strain or injure the foot until fully over the effects of the 
injury. Consequently the horse at first should be driven very 
moderately for two or three months, or more. If the road is rough, 
frozen, or stony, there is such danger of straining, wrenching, or 
bruising the foot, and thereby causing a relapse, that the horse 
should not be driven, if it can possibly be avoided. 

If there is any contraction of either or both quarters, there 
should be a special effort to overcome this also during the treat- 
ment. (For full details of doing which, see "Shoeing," page 681.) 
In opening the foot with the spreaders, great care should be taken 
not to produce any irritation. The quarters should be opened 
gradually. When the lameness has entirely disappeared, bring 
the frog again slowly to the ground to the extent it will safely 
bear. If any soreness is indicated, raise the heel a little, keeping 
the foot moist to prevent contraction, and when the soreness 
passes off, again gradually lower it. 

Some authorities advise bleeding in the foot in connection with 
the treatment given; my judgment of this is that it is rarely 
necessary, and is advisable only when the horse is very fat and 
the lameness is very severe, or during its acute stage. The best 
practitioners with whom the writer has conversed on the subject 
do not bleed. 

If, after blistering, there is still lameness, it is evident that the 
case has been running some time, and has assumed a chronic 
stage. In this event, the next and last step of treatment for cure 
is a frog seton. Prof. Williams's instructions for doing this are 
so good that I cannot do better than to copy them: — 

'' If the near foot is to be operated upon, the needle should be 
introduced from the frog upwards; but if the off one, from the heel 



NAVICULAR-JOINT LAMENESS. 793 

downwards, if the operator be not left-handed. It is seldom neces- 
saiy to cast the animal. The horny frog must be well pared, and 
if the needle — a sharp- pointed, sharp, curved one — be passed 
quickly, the operation is generally completed before the animal 
knows much about it. It is necessary that care sLould be taken 
not to introduce the needle too deeply, as the tendon may be 
wounded; the point of the needle should be introduced into the 
frog about an inch from the toe and brought out midway between 
the bulbs of the frog and the anterior boundary of the hollow heel. 
The ends of the tape must be tied together, so as to form a loop, 
which is to be safSciently long to admit of a little movement in 
dressing, but not so long as to extend to the boundary of the wall, 
or the hoi'se, by treading upon it, will soon destroy it. Before the 
seton ib introduced, it is usual to jiut on the shoe for the purpose of 
removing weight from the irritated frog. About three weeks or a 
month is the usual time for keeping the seton in the frog, dressing 
it daily and keeping the foot clean. After its removal, the frog 
must be examined, for usually it is ' under-run ' between the two 
orifices by purulent matter; if such be the case, the detached horn 
must be removed and the exposed parts dressed with a little tar. 
If structural changes have not taken place, this plan of treatment 
will usually be found effective; but if the lameness continue after a 
month has elapsed after the removal of the seton, all treatment will 
bo useless, and the animal should be put to slow work, or the pain 
removed by neurotomy." 

This, of course, should be done by a competent veterinary 
surgeon. 

I have been led to give particular attention to the study of 
this lameness, from the fact that many years ago one of my best 
horses, old Turco, became lame from this cause. First, there 
was noticed a slight flinching while moving on a trot. The feet 
being at the time very dry and hard, it caused a compression of 
the wall upon the soft parts. In the course of a couple of months 
I called in a veterinary surgeon, who was considered a good prac- 
titioner as well as good authority. He promised to cure the case 
in a month. His treatment consisted of simply applying a strong 
sweating blister to the coronet, keeping up a sharp counter-irrita- 
tion for eight or ten days, but with no good results. I am satis- 
fied, that if at this stage of the case the foot had been thoroughly 
soaked by either hot or cold water, the quarters opened a little 
with the shoe well rounded at the toe, and the heels somewhat 
elevated, there would have been no difficulty in making a cure. 
But the surgeon did nothing more than apply a counter-irritant 
for a little more than a week. This seemed to be, and is yet, about 



794 



DISEASES AND THElli TREATMENT. 



the extent of treatment used by the average of practitioners, 
which in the writer's judgment is not sufficient. Mobility must 
be aided as much as possible, to assist in preventing and remov- 
ing any irritation caused by motion. In the course of time the 
foot became narrower and higher at the heels, the frog smaller, 
and the convexity of the sole greatly increased. Notwithstanding 

I had at various 
times during this 
period consulted 
with different 
veterinary sur- 
geons of consid- 
erable reputa- 
tion, the treat- 
ment recom- 
mended was 
merely pallia- 
tive, and prac- 
ically did no 
jood. The near- 
st any of them 
jame to giving 
any relief, was 
in putting on a 
convex shoe to 
relieve contrac- 
tion, and blistering the coronet, for which instruction the writer 
was charged twenty-five dollars, but the case had run too long, 
and the treatment did no good. Now, with the treatment here 
given, it would have been a very simple matter to have relieved 
this case, if taken in time. But not knowing anything about the 
proper treatment myself at the time, a valuable horse was ruined. 
In some simple cases the effect of raising the heels and rounding 
the toe is often quite remarkable. 

I will refer to one case in point: At a little town in' the 
western part of New York, near Jamestown, a farmer who had 
attended my class, wished me to look at a young horse that had 
been lame for some time. I took the horse to the blacksmith 
shop and ordered the shoe removed, the toe hammered down and 




Fig. 699. — As the seton should be inserted into the foot. 

A, A. The seton; Ji. The sensitive frog ; C. Navicular bone; 
J). Insensitive frog. 



NAYIOULAK-JOINT LAMEl^TESS. 795 

rounded a little, the heels raised, and the shoe again put on. 
Years afterward, upon my return to that place, I heard the owner 
state publicly the facts concerning this horse. He said that it had 
been lame for over a month; that he was unable to find out the 
cause of the trouble, and did not know what to do for it; that I 
examined the horse and took it to the shop ; that he did not know 
what I did with the case ; he only knew that it never took a lame 
step afterward. He as much as inferred that the cure was made 
by some secret manipulation of my own which I did not divulge. 
The horse happened to be kept idle for about a week after the 
change in the shoeing, which gave the irritation time to pass off, 
so that when the horse was put to work and found not lame, it 
was regarded as a remarkable cure. 

At the Sanitarium, in Battle Creek, Mich., while engaged in 
writing and revising this work, I was requested to look at a very 
fine horse owned by the institution. It had been lame for three 
or four weeks, and upon examination I concluded it was a simple 
case of navicular-joint lameness. I ordered the shoe to be taken 
ofi" and changed as before directed, and again put on. There 
being some slight inflammation in the foot, I directed that several 
thicknesses of blanket be wound around it, and kept wet for a 
week, at the expiration of which time the horse seemed to be all 
right; but I told the manager that, to make a permanent cure, 
the horse must not be put to work yet for three or four weeks, 
and then to drive only on a walk upon a smooth road. My in- 
structions were followed, the horse put to work in due time, and 
the cure proved to be permanent. 

Soon after my visit to Cleveland, Ohio (referred to in Personal 
Experience), " Giffbrd," one of my trained horses, sprained one of 
his feet so badly that he could scarcely walk upon it. I simply 
rounded the toe, raised the heels, and kept the foot wet for a week, 
when the soreness and inflammation entirely disappeared. Being 
compelled to move him, I drove him carefully on a walk for 
several weeks, after which the shoe was gradually lowered again 
at the heel. A year after this, he sprained the opposite foot in 
the same manner, showing great pain and lameness. It was 
treated in the same manner as the other, and with the same suc- 
cess. I could refer to a great many cases showing the good results 
of this simple treatment, which could be done by any one by the 
directions here given. 



796 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 

When the lameness has continued so long as to render cure 
impossible, it may be greatly helped by slightly rounding or turn- 
ing up the toe so that the foot will roll a little on the ground, and 
slightly raising the heel-calks. _ The shoe should be fitted very 
carefully. A still better way in very sensitive cases, is to put 
leather or rubber between the shoe and foot. When this is done, 
the nails should not be driven or clinched tightly. Hard wrench- 
ing or hammering of the foot should never be permitted, as a very 
little carelessness in this way would be liable to cause considerable 
soreness and lameness. 

Since writing this chapter, I have incidentally obtained some 
points in the management of this lameness, which, notwithstand- 
ing the extreme length of this article, I will take the liberty to add. 

While in conversation with a well-known veterinary surgeon 
in New York City, he incidentally informed me of a case of 
navicular-joint lameness, which was diagnosed as such, and pro- 
nounced incurable by one of the leading veterinary authorities in 
that city. The animal was a fine mare, owned by Dr. Sayers, an 
eminent specialist, and valued highly as a gift. Discouraged at 
this decision from a high authority, he went immediately to Mr. 
Robert Bonner, whose general knowledge on everything pertaining 
to the horse he regarded as next to infallible, and in whom, as a 
personal friend, he had great confidence. Mr. Bonner assured 
him that the case could be easily cured, and directed him to 
take her to Mr. David Roburg for treatment, requesting him, 
as a matter of curiosity and as a proof of the success of the ti-eat- 
ment, to give a daily report of the progress of the case. The 
result of the trial was the complete disappearance of the lameness 
in about two weeks, although the horse was driven daily. 

I called upon Mr. Roburg, who, as stated on page 630, is an 
expert shoer of remarkable skill, and stated to him what I 
had learned, and that I would like to have him give me such an 
explanation of his method of treatment as he could constistently 
do; that I wished to give the best points known on the subject, 
not only for the benefit of my readers generally, but for that 
of the veterinary profession. Mr. Roburg very kindly ex- 
plained to me the main points of his management. First : To 
remove all strain from the part involved by the most perfect ad- 
justment of a shoe that would aid mobihty to the greatest extent; 



iSTAYICULAE-JOINT LAMENESS. 



m 




Fig 700. 



- Side view of second form of 
Roburg's shoe. 



and when in the stable, keeping the foot cool by slightly packing 
the sole with wet oakum, and covering the coroneb with wet 
cloths. If there was any contraction, he made it a particular point 
to relieve it and the compression of the wall at the same time, as 
quickly as he could, 
by the adjustment of 
his spring, which is 
explained and illus- 
trated in connection 
with his shoes on the 
pages referred to. His 
best shoe, he claimed, 
for this purpose, is the 

one here shown, of which I give very accurate sectional drawings, 
with those of others made on the same principle, on pages G91, 692. 
In fitting the shoe to the condition of lameness, he is very particular 

to adjust it so as to 
ease the strain or 
cause of irritation to 
the greatest possible 
degree, frequently be- 
ing compelled to exper- 
iment, more or less, by 
moving the shoe a lit- 
tle to the right or left, 
then noticing the ef- 
fect upon the horse in 
traveling. When 
there is improvement, it is accepted as proof of the correctness of 
his adjustment; if, on the other hand, there is not what he regards 
as satisfactory progress, he changes the shoe according to the 
indications of the case until successful. The real point of this 
shoe is that, by its rounded form, it supplies the lack of mobility 
caused by the inflammation and soreness in the foot; that 
it acts, as it were, as "an extra joint to the foot," which is 
the necessary requisite; so that for all forms of acute or chronic 
lameness he tries to aid the freedom of the foot in motion by the 
conformation of the shoe and its adjustment. 

Mr. Roburg has had such remarkable success in the manage- 
ment of such cases by his treatment, the one referred to being 




Fig. 701. — Roburg's shoe. 



7^8 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATM:b:NT. 

but an ordinary one in his practice, that it certainly seems worth 
while to study the matter with care, since it is evident there is 
much to learn on the management of this and other kinds of foot- 
lameness, and that Mr. Bonner is so thoroughly informed on this 
subject as to be far in advance of all accepted authority. In- 
deed, Dr. Going, formerly veterinary editor of the Spirit of the 
Times, who is himself one of the most successful practitioners and 
reliable authorities in the country, in an article published in the 
Turf, Field, and Farm, admits as much, as will be seen by his 
statement, which I copy, with the editor's comments on the 
same : — 

" Dr. Going, who was for many years editor of the Yeterinary 
Department of our Chambers street contemporary, writes as follows 
on the subject of Horse-Shoeing, in his 'Veterinary Dictionary': — 

" ' It is said no man has ever yet reached perfection in any branch of art, 
science, hterature, industry, etc. ; but while I am unprepared to join issue 
with the assertion, I can safely say that the nearest approach which has ever 
been made in this connection (horse- shoeing and the study of the horse's 
foot) has been made by Robert Bonner, Esq. , of New York, who, had not 
the Ledger already made him famous, would undoubtedly have obtained 
widespread renown through his almost superhuman knowledge in this de- 
partment. I have had the pleasure of conversing with him on this subject, 
and am pleased to have an opportunity of stating the impression the conver- 
sation made upon me. 

* * * " ' I would say, if Mr. Bonner could only be persuaded to write 
a book on this subject (which he so intimately understands), it would be an 
inestimable boon to the present and future generations of man and horse. ' 

" This is a. generous tribute on the part of Dr. Going to an ama- 
teur. If other veterinary surgeons were equally generous, then 
there would be a chance for them to learn something. At present, 
we know that they know comparatively nothing, for instance, about 
navicular-joint disease and other alleged incurable troubles of the 
foot. A lesson in this line would not hurt the editor of our own 
Veterinary Dejjartment. 

" We, too, think that Mr. Bonner ought to write a boolc on this 
subject." 

All are aware how much depends upon the judgment and in- 
genuity of the operator; that a very little want of judgment or 
skill in making the adjustment would cause failure; that this 
harmonizing of conditions to those of the case must be largely 
the province of genius, aided by the most careful study, to ac- 
complish, and this Mr. E,oburg proves himself in the highest 
degree an expert in doing. 



NEUROTOMY. 79^ 



Neurotomy.* 



Should the case prove to be incurable, there is now one alter- 
native for relieving the lameness. That is severing the nerves, or 
performing the operation of neurotomy. If the foot will bear it, 
the character of which I will presently describe, it will prove a 
very important and valuable operation, because it can be resorted 
to with success after all other means have failed to remove the 
lameness; not only this, but it relieves the animal from the con- 
tinued pain and suffering to which he has been subject. But if, 
on the contrary, the case is not a suitable 'one, no matter how 
skillfully the operation may be performed, it will prove unfavor- 
able or destructive to the case. 

It was first introduced by Dr. Turner (before referred to), 
who, after vainly exhausting his resources of treatment for the 
cure of navicular lameness, finally turned his attention to destroy- 
ing sensibility of the foot by severing the nerve, and obtained the 
most satisfactory results. 

The operation was afterward introduced in the Veterinary 
School of England, as a means of overcoming chronic lameness. 

Great care should be taken in selecting proper subjects, as in 
no case where inflammation exists in the foot, should the opera- 
tion be performed. It is adapted only to cases of chronic navi- 
cular disease, ossification of the lateral cartilages and ring-bone, 
and from feeliags of humanity in aggravated cases of canker, 
which are tedious and painful in the extreme. The following are 
the rules laid down by the best authorities: First, Never operate 
upon a very heavy, thick-legged cart-horse; Second, Never 
operate where the feet are thin, weak in the heels, full or convex 
in the sole, or brittle through weakness of the hoof, and on no 
account if the horse has high action ; Third, Operate only when 
the foot is good and strong, with a concave sole, and the action 
not too high; for if the action is high he is apt to injure his feet 
by the severe poundiag. The greatest care is required not to 
prick, and in drivmg not to bruise, the sole. The feet should be 
picked and washed every night, and well covered with hoof oint- 

* This article was written by the author, mainly from notes taken of Dr. Sum- 
merville's lecture to him on neurotomy. 



800 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



ment to keep tliem from becoming dry and hard. There are two 
locations for this operation, the high and the low. By dividing 
the nerve above the fetlock, called the high operation, we destroy 
all sensibility below the fetlock. The lower operation may be 

performed at a point about at the 
middle of the large pastern bone and 
upon the posterior part of the nerve ; 
it then acts as a cure for ossified 
cartilages, and the forward part of 
the foot is left to be supplied as be- 
fore by the other branch of the 
nerve. 

Before performing this operation, 
the horse should have a few days' 
rest, and proper means should also 
be used to allay any inflammation 
of the affected parts. The horse 
should then be cast, the foot secured, 
and an incision made through the 
skin about aninch long, and about 
an inch and a half from the fetlock, 
using a sponge to absorb the blood. 
The subtissues are now scraped 
aside with a blunt knife until the 
nerve is exposed, which lies by the 
side of the artery. Next, a threaded needle, slightly crooked 
and blunted at the point, is passed under the nerve. When 
once the thread is passed under, the main difficulty is over. 
The needle is now taken out, the nerve gently lifted with the 
thread, and the cellular membrane underneath snipped away with 
a pair of scissors or knife, so as to admit a slender, curved bistoury 
to pass under the nerve without touching it. As soon as the 
nerve is cleared up to the highest part of the incision, the bistoury 
is passed along to this point, and the nerve quickly divided by a 
drawing stroke. It is necessary that the nerve be divided with as 
little violence as possible, for when it is done with the scissors, or 
by lifting the knife directly up, or with a knife that does not 
cut well, a thickening will form at the upper extremity of the 




Fig, 703.— Usual method of per- 
forming the operation. 



NUEEOTOMY. 



801 



divided nerve, which will show considerable tenderness ; and when 
this happens to be struck in driving, it gives the horse so much 
pain as to cause him to go lame for a short time. 

The division of the nerve causes intense but momentar}'^ pain, 
like an electric shock, and the horse's 
strusffflinsf at the moment must be at- 
tended to ; but as soon as this passes off 
the pain of the operation is over. The 
inferior portion of the nerve is then to 
be laid hold of by the forceps, and 
from half to three-quarters of an inch 
cut out. The edges of the skin should 
next be drawn together with one 
stitch in the middle, and the operation 
performed on the opposite side in the 
same manner. Next, apply a cold, 
wet bandage; give a dose of physic. 
About the fourth or fifth day the 
stitches may slough out, leaving the 
wound open ; but this need not cause 
any anxiety. Keep the horse quiet 
about two weeks, when he may be 
turned to pasture or put to slow 
work. 

It has been found that simply sev- 
ering the nerve will remove the lame- 
ness for a few weeks, when it will 
again unite and leave the foot as 
sensitive as it was before; and that 
by removing a small portion of it, 
three-eighths of an inch or so, it will 
unite in the course of a few months ; 
but the cure in most cases is made ^^^- '^03.- 
permanent. When it is desired to 
destroy this sensibility, or so that the 
nerve cannot grow sufficiently to again unite, from three-quar- 
ters of an inch to an inch is removed. Of course care should 
be taken not to work the horse violently immediately after the 

51 




-Showing nerve, artery, 
and vein. 
a, a. Nerve; e. Vein; o. Artery. 



802 DISEASES AND THE IK TREATMENT. 

operation, or have the feet injured by .shoeing, or exposed in any 
way to injury, such as taking nails and so on. 

This has been an operation that for many years has been made 
the most of by jockeys and unprincipled persons, by cheating in 
two ways: First, by operating upon a horse so as to remove the 
lameness, and then trade or sell quickly as a sound animal, and if 
not suspected, there would be no way of detecting it until too late. 
Hence there should be a law passed that all horses having this 
operation performed upon them, should be branded so as to be 
known. If there is any suspicion of such a thing, it can be easily 
proved by sticking a pin into the coronet, when, of course if the 
nerves had been severed, there would be no sensibility. 

The second would be done somewhat as follows: Parties would 
travel rapidly through the country, assuming that for a sum of 
money they would perform an operation that would cure any 
case of lameness in the feet. By their promising to give perfect 
satisfaction or no pay, unsuspecting owners would be induced to 
bring in their horses for treatment. No matter though the horse 
may have been driven twenty miles that morning, with his feet 
full of heat and inflammation, and unsuitable for the operation, 
the horse would be thrown down, the nerves severed, when he 
would be trotted up and down the street to show the apparently 
wonderful effect. The owner, of course, would be delighted, and 
pay the fee, when he would be told he could drive the horse home. 
The result would be that from the amount of inflammation pro- 
duced in the foot, there would be ulceration of the coronet and 
loss of the hoof, making the destruction of the horse inevitable. 
This led to the operation being brought into great disrepute and 
suspicion. 

It is, of course, advisable in all cases to have a competent 
veterinary surgeon employed, if available, to perform this opera- 
tion. 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 



803 



Descriptiojst of Some of the Pathological Conditions of 

HoESEs' Feet, Commonly Present in the Various 

Stages of Chronic Lameness.* 

The morbid specimens selected for the drawings which illus- 
trate this section of my work, comprise some of the most impor- 
tant conditions commonly met with in lame horses, the occurrence 
of which it is my object to prevent and remedy. 

The chronic anomalous conditions of horses' feet, entailing lame- 
ness of more or less acute degree, present two quite opposite ap- 
pearances to our view; the one a wasting and the other a,n en- 
grossment of structures, the textures of the parts a,ffected being 




Fig. 704. 

in both instances greatly changed. In describing these conditions, 
I shall make use of the appropriate short terms, — Atrophy and 
Hypertrophy. 

u 

Fig. 704 represents a transverse section of the hoof of a fore foot 
of an aged cart-horse, in which the sole had become flattened, and at 
some points had even passed the plane, and assumed the convex, in 
contrast to the normal concave form of surface. 

Fig. 705 represents the coffin-bone of the same foot, as that 
of the hoof described, and shows how exactly the outline and sur- 
faces of one accord with those of the other, which characteristics 
ai-e made more manifest when the parts are handled. It is true 
that these surfaces are not met with quite regular, but the irregu- 



* To illustrate some of the changes of structure that take place in the foot, as 
the result of inflammation, etc., I copy the following article from Gaingee on Lame- 
ness. 



804 



DlSl^ASES AND 'THEIE TREATMENT. 



larities are constantly reciprocal. It has been said, and I believe 
truly, that "nature abhors plane surfaces" in animal formation, 
and such is found to be true as normal and altered forms are 
studied. 

The above-described aspect shows the atrophy of the bone, but 
this coffin-bone affords a typical example of hypertrophy also, and 1 
can submit no better specimen, though I have many others anal- 
ogous to it, to show the twofold condition of wasting and enlarge- 
ment existing together in the same bone at different parts. Atro- 
phy, wasting of bone, precedes hypertrophy, augmentation of bone; 
and yet both are effects due to prior adverse causes, without Avhich 
neither o*f these conditions would have happened. 

Figs. 706 and 707 represent the hoof and last three bones of 
the near fore foot of a horse, which, in a state of great lameness, 
was taken to an Edinburgh tan-yard to be destroyed. 1 obtained 
and dissected both fore limbs, which were deformed precisely alike. 




Fig. 705. 

and were affected by altered conditions of structure, as these speci- 
mens prove. 

Fig. 706 shows the conditions of the hoof, which displays obvi- 
ous traces of mutilation on the exterior surfa(3e of the wall, by means 
of the rasp, and of the indiscreetly-applied drawing-knife. By this 
twofold action of paring the hoof below, and rasping it exteriorly, 
a result was attained which has been admirably characterized in 
the technical phraseology of model Italian farriers — "The horse's 
foot so treated is peeled like an orange." 

Fig. 707 represents the skeleton of the foot to which the above- 
described hoof belonged. Similarly placed upon a plane, the hoof 
and coffin-bone exhibit corresponding anomalous conditions, the 
most obvious being their tilting inward, due to the reductions of 
the hoof, chiefly in its inner part. The tilting Avas caused b}^ reduc- 
tion of the hoof, and by absorption of the coffin-bone, — nature's 
common accommodating provision for the mitigation of pain by the 
removal of margins, when these, being deprived of support and 
defense, become exposed to injury. 

Here, again, that provision is seen, as in the former instance of 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIOJN^S OF FEET. 



805 



compensation, by new bone-structure being formed at different 
points. 

Succeeding to the atrophy of the coffin-bone, its appended car- 
tillages become ossified, and two bone-columns rise up laterally, 
one on each side of the short pastern bone, which is seen leaning 
against the inner one, and is held hy ligamentous bands extended 
from the outer column. 

Figs. 708 and 709 also represent a hoof and the skeleton of the 
near fore foot of a horse. This case is of great interest, and 1 ad- 




FiG. 70G. 



duce it for the purpose of explaining something in a positive and 
also a negative way about cor7is. 

In the estimation of all concerned, corns were the great cause 
of suffering to this horse. Besides the usual paring of the sole. 
Fig. 708 shows two openings due to the scooping away of the hoof 
where '' the seat of corn" was said to exist. The more the scoop- 
ing away of the hoof wns persisted in, the greater was the suffering 
caused by the destruction of the quick. The openings through 
which the blood-colored discharge descended are shown in Fig. 708 
by two bands of paper passing through each angle of the hoof, at 
its extremities, by the sides of the frog. 

Fig. 709 represents prominently a lateral view of the inside 
aspect of the coffin-bone. A deep ulcerated cavity is shown at the 



806 



DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. 



side of the extremity of the bone, and one similar in kind, but less 
extensive, exists on the retrorsal margin on the other side. Apart 
fi'om the lesions of hoof, soft structures, cartilage, and bone, atrophy 
of the coffin and navicular bones, with deep excavation of the latter, 
existed to the same extent in both fore feet. 

The termination of this case was extraordinary in its occurrence, 
and more than justifies, it seems, a short digression from my sub- 
ject; the termination was by sudden death. The incident which I 
am about to narrate happened nine years ago. While in the per- 
formance of my duty at the Edinburgh JSTew Yeterinary College, 1 
was called in haste by a groom to attend a horse that had acci- 
dentally fallen in a street close by. I accompanied the man in- 




FiG. 707. 

stantly, and when we reached the stable found the horse lying 
quite dead; only a few minutes had elapsed from the time the groom 
left the horse standing in his stall, and only about twenty minutes 
from the time the horse fell. The immediate occurrence, as related 
by the man, happened thus: The horse, lame on both fore feet, was 
being ridden by the groom, who was returning to the stable with a 
sackful of forage placed before him on the horse's back. The ani- 
mal, so encumbered, was being trotted on the pavement of a narrow 
street, and the way he was going was on a decline. The horse 
stumbled, and after making efforts to recover himself, fell, pitching 
the man and sack over his head. The man escaped injury, but the 
horse was with difficulty, and only by help, raised upon his feet, 
and staggered into the stable, which was only a few yards distant. 
An examination of the carcass revealed the cause of the almost 
instant death that succeeded the fall of the horse. The midriff was 
rent in its center, making an aperture so large that the stoma,ch 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 



807 



and other contents of the abdomen had shot through, in the for- 
ward fall, and these filled u]) the chest and were immovable. Eup- 
tures of the diaphragm of the horse have come under my notice on 
several occasions, from 
well-understood causes of 
spasmodic kind, but the 

above is the only case I ^fi'^''^ 

ever knew of a similar oc- ^^' ^ 

currence. 

The rest of the history 
of the subject was soon 
made out. The horse was 
the property of a grocer, 
who used to run him in a 
light cart, and who stated 
that he had owned the 
animal for about two years, 
and that he had been a 
reputed good hunter, and 
came to the last owner at 
a low price through being- 
lame, in which state the 
animal had continued, and 
had worked till the ter- 
mination now detailed- 
thereafter I obtained botl 
fore limbs of the horse fo: 
dissection, with the resultt 
shown above. 

•Figs. 710 and 711 repre- 
sent component structures of the foot of a horse whose case was 

iiatimately and long known 
to mo. 

Fig. 710 shows the hoof 
placed on a plane surface; 
it is seen tp be depressed 
across the front of the wall, 
and a light-colored streak, 
marking an inveterate sand- 
crack, extends fi-om top to 
bottom at the quarter. Cor- 
responding to the hollow 
depression of the foot above 
referred to, there was nec- 
essarily a bulging of the sole 
downward, that is, a flat- 
tening, and more or less 
convexity at parts of the sole. Altogether a total abnormal state 
is observable. The horn fibres are seen in the illustration of the 




Fig. 708. 




Fig. 709. 



808 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



hoof to have attained an undue obliquity, and curve in their course 
from above downward. 

The engraving of the coffin-bone of the foot, of which the above- 




FiG. 710. 

described hoof forms part, is remarkable under the twofold aspect 
of deformity and diminution of substance. The sjDace occupied by 
the bone within the hoof, and its weight, are reduced probably two- 
thirds the proportion 
of its primitive com- 
plete growth, while 
the hoof, viewed su- 
perficially, greatly ex- 
ceeds the normal size. 
I have mentioned the 
superficial aspect of 
the form, that is, the 
deceptive view, the 
one common to aged 
horses with defective 
and diseased feet. 
Surface and substance 
do not amount to the 
same thing; weakness 
and disease are com- 
mon to the first, but 
strength and perfec- 
tion are only com- 
patible with depth of cubical capacity, wdth proportionate sub- 
stance, and form of structure. 

The animal which supplied material for the above illustrations 
was sent to the New Yeterinary College, when very lame, in 1859. 
With difficulty the horse had been led fi-om his stable. Bar-shoes, 
with leather soles, hid from view surfaces of soles and frogs painful 
even to look on when exposed. 




Fig. 711. 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIOl^S OF FEET 



809 



The coachman expressed surprise, and exhibited displeasure, 
when ho saw me taking up the horse's foot, ordering the shoe to be 




Fig. 713. 

taken off, and a new pair 
of shoes to be made, while 
I proceeded to prepare the 
feet. It subsequently 
transpired that putting the 
horse out of his misery 
was contemj^lated, and 
that our opinion was ex- 
pected to be in accordance 
with advice tendered to 
that effect. We took pains, 
and employed the knowl- 
edge and skill at command, 
with the result that the 
horse which arrived in 
pain and difficulty Avalked 
from the forge two hours 
afterward, almost free 
from pain, and was put to 
work either on the next 
or second day, and went 
on rendering excellent ser- 
vice for three years after- 
wards, when, being then 
nineteen years old, and a 

casualty having happened to him, he was put away. 

Fig. 711 represents a coffin-bone, selected for the purpose of 

showing one in a more advanced stage of disease than any of those 

yet brought under notice. 




810 



DISEASES AND TIIEIE TEBATMENT. 



The differences in the degree of absorption of this bone which 
had taken place, and-^its consequent shortened form, will, it is pre- 
sumed, make impression on the minds of readers. 1 have to state, 
moreover, that such phenomena are not very uncommon, but often 
lie hidden from observation within a hoof excessively prolonged 
and turned up in front, with depi^ssed sole. By looking at the 
bottom surface of this bone, it may be seen that at the center, which 
normally is the point of the deepest concavity of the arch, columns 




Fig. 714. 

of bone are formed which give attachment to the fibrous bands, 
tendons, etc., the natural bony crest and arch being destroyed. 

The three succeeding engravings represent distinct views of the 
same foot, one of the two fore feet of a cart-horse, both of Avhich 
were in precisely the same abnormal state; the history of the sub- 
ject is known only to the extent that the limbs were obtained by 
the author at a tan-yard in Edinburgh, where the horse had been 
taken to be slaughtered. 

Figs. 713 and 714 show respectively a front and back view of 
the same parts — the bones of the near foot^ — in a complete state of 
anchylosis. I shall only attempt to give a brief description of these 
anomalous specimens; to treat fully the causes, the conditions, and 
the order of sequence of occurrences, Avould require more space than 
can be assigned here to a single specimen or a series. 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET 



811 



The hoof is drawn as if one were looking down into its cavity, 
showing the bulged form corresponding to the largo bone formation 
on the outer aspect of the foot, 
occupying the space from the 
pastern joint downward, and 
rigidly fixing the joints involved 
In this case, so faithfully illu 
trated by the figures produced 
phenomena are exhibited that 
are rarely seen so well. In the 
back view, Fig. 714 of the spec- 
imen, is seen the wasted and 
irregularly flattened state of the 
coffin-bone, the extent to which 
cartilages and ligaments have 





Fig. 715, 

become replaced by bone, and 
also how some of the ligament- 
ous bands are developed, and their 
courses modified by attachment to 
strong spars of bone-substance, 
displayed to afford hold for these 
essential bands, without which 
no movement would be possible, 
strength would be wanting, and 
the bones would be crushed by 
muscular force exerted from above. 
I find the same order of sequence 
in this case as I have described in 
others; firstly external anomalous 
conditions, alterations of the sur- 
faces of the coffin-bone, and these 
succeeded by other compensating 
provisions. The case is typically 
illustrative of the two conditions 
to which I have referred as com- 
mon to these anomalous changes, 
— destructive and reparative; the 
first of these in this case is ob- 
scured by the excess of the latter. I venture to submit that the 
lesser in appearance was the real diseased state, set up by artificial 
measures badly applied, and that the additions represent Nature's 
provisions of palliation, following as the necessary sequels. 



812 



DISEASES AND THEIP. TEEATMENT. 



Eig. 716 i-epresents the last six bones of a near fore foot, and is 
another typical illusti-ation of the waste and increase of substance, 
mostly of bone. These phenomena, so marvelous in their character, 
are more common to horses under adverse influences than to any 
other race of animals. But this figure, and the succeeding one, 
shows still further nature's provision; the elongations of bone, 
transformation of cartilages and ligaments into bone, and the sub- 
stance of one uniting with that of the other, to give strength, are 
brought about by the dragging of the periosteum. That which 




Fig. 717. 

modern surgery has accomplished by transposing the membrane of 
bone from one position over another, is done in the case of the 
horse by the dragging leverage of shaft bones upon pliable interme- 
diate structures, having their fixed points upon the surface of bones 
below, which constitutes their base of action, and that failing, a 
new order of reparative construction ensues. 

Atrophy, in most instances, escapes notice, or from lack of 
knowledge is alluded to under the vague phrase of "Contraction 
of the foot." Then occur swellings, which are tortured Avith 
assumed remedies; that is beginning at the wrong end, and in 
the wrong manner to eff'ect a cure or afford relief. The Fig. 
716 was taken fi'om one of the two fore feet, both of Avhich were 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIOITS OF FEET. 



813 



affected with corns. The hoofs were reduced so as to be m- 
capable of performing their office; and while the drawing-knife 
was doing its scooping worl^, nature's fence of bone was closing 
the breach. Leather soles and bar-shoes hid the bottom of the 
mangled feet. 

Fig. 717. — The ]3athological conditions represented hj this 
engraving, which includes the bones of the foot corresponding to the 
last referred to, excepting the navicular bone, offer much in com- 
mon with the last for contemplative instruction. All that has been 
said about the urgent causes which induced such extensive substi- 
tutions of bone for ligaments and cartilages, the augmentations and 
complete anchylosis of joints, applies to this case. The history of 




Fig. 718. 



both subjects is alike unknown; the specimens wore obtained at the 
place of slaughter, to which the lame horses were taken at Edin- 
burgh, and the dissections and observations were carefully carried 
on by me, and much time was devoted to the work. The cause 
and origin of the disease in this instance differed from those of the 
former, and so, in the sequence and termination, obvious differences 
in external appearances and conditions were observable. 

The original and essential seat of disease in the case represented 
by Fig. 717 was caries of the pyramidal process of the coffin-bone, 
which the drawing admirably shows; the foot represented is the 
near one, and an enlargement and deep excavation of the bone is 
seen in the lateral aspect of that projection. The disease had been 
of very long standing, as all the changes the foot had undergone 



814 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 




testify. The front of the lower surface of the coffin-bone, upon 
which alone the limb rested, had become absorbed, the object being 
to constitute a straight column, since the parts were incapable of 

performing any of the 
motive functions of the 
healthy foot, for leverage 
effect. The hoof necessa- 
rily took the vertical line 
of form with the whole 
region — the heels were 
deep. All bearing was 
conveyed to the point at 
which part the shoe was 
worn, proving that the an- 
imal had been Avorked to 
the last in the state in 
which the foot was found 
after death, there being 
no signs of recent change 
in the case, nor any means 
of relief having been re- 
sorted to. 

This figure, No. 718, in 
some of its phases, is a 
rej)etition of the last (not 
included because not of 
sufiicient interest to be desirable), for the deplorable barbarity 
practiced, of which it affords the most conclusive evidence. 

The specimens from which the drawing 
was taken, the hoof and navicular bone, 
are those of the fore foot of a fine mare, 
apparently thorough-bred, which I was in 
the habit of seeing with mingled feelings 
of pity, and admiration of her form, as she 
Avorked a cab in Edinburgh seven years 
ago. The navicular bone, as is plainly 
shown, was extensively wasted and ulcer- 
ated. The mare, long before her death, 
which, like that of the previous case, was 
caused by the torture she endured, had 
been the victim of inveterate chronic lame- 
ness, which could have been readil}^ re- 
lieved, but progressively advanced from 
bad to worse, deduction of the hoof by 
cutting induced absorption of the loAver surface of the coffin- 
bone, and also that of the navicular bone; until, as in the previous 
case, the knife repeatedly emploj^ed destroyed the hoof first, then 
the cartilage, and, lastly, reached to the navicular bone and the 
joint, the latter injury proving &tal to life. 

Fig. 719 shows the state of the lower surface of the coffin-bone; 



Fig. 719. 




Fig. 720. 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIOIn^S OF FEET. 



815 



the convex form of the plantar surface of that bone had, as is always 
the case, its counterpart in the form of the hoof, the sole of which 
was paumace — after a French expression, — literally, apple-shaped, 
or round instead of concave and arched. But the typical character 
of those coffin-bones, as represented by the single specimen, is that 
of both being fractured in a transverse direction across the bottom 
of the bone, at an inch from the point. 

Fig. 720 shows the foot, drawn as it was placed upon a table, 
and will help in this 
descri^Jtion the com- 
prehension of the state 
of the case. The point 
of the bone is turned 
up. The bone, which 
had become shallow and 
weak, at length, under 
the weight and exer- 
tion of the animal, gave 
way at the part indi- 
cated, *'. e., it fractured, 
but was held together 
by the net- work of fi- 
brous texture which 
laces and invests the 
bone. The lesion may 
be regarded as a partial 
fracture, associated 
with a bending upward 
of the loosened end of 
the bone, held in prox- 
imity chiefly by the fi- 
brous tissues, but sup- 
jDorted also by the hoof, which, though thinned and weak, took the 
form of the broken bone, and was bent upward in front. The 
other foot I prejjared, diff'erently from that used for these en- 
gravings, by sawing longitudinally through the hoof and the in- 
cluded parts while fresh,- these, together, are remarkable specimens. 

Fig. 721 represents another form of fracture of a coffin-bone, but 
though differing in its appearance, and place of the occurrence of 
fracture, from the case previously described, the two help to eluci- 
date each other as to the cause and mode of occurrence. As shown 
by the engraving, this bone was flattened down by absorption until 
it became so attenuated as to be unequal in substance and strength 
to bear the burden imposed, and it therefore gave way under it. It 
will be observed that the bone broke where, from greatest pressure 
and absorption, it had become weakest, and, as in the former case, 
it broke where the greatest strain of lever action was brought to 
bear upon it. To explain, I must state that the coffin-bone is one 
of the most energetic levers in the whole system of animal-con- 
struction, in the line of its long axis from heel to point. The fract- 




FiG. 721. 



S16 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMBNT. 



ure of tlie bone, represented by Fig. 720, liappencd near to the 
point of the lever, while being raised, under Aveight from behind, 
upon the point. In the case under consideration the bone had be- 
come weakest on its inner half, precisely at the center line of the 
foot, so depressed by its thinness that the foot tilted inward, and 
gave way immediately beneath the 2")ivot, the mid-line of the coro- 
nary bone; this was also the fulcrum of the lever, the front of the 
bone being its point of resistance. As in the former case, the rais- 
ing of the foot from a plane toward a vertical line fractured the 
corresponding bone in the two cases in different positions, but 
through the same causes, — weakened hoof, and the other adverse 
conditions which led to atrophy of the bones. 

Fig. 722 is a representation of a fractured navicular bone, a 
casualty of more frequent occurrence to horses in this countr}^ than 




Fig. 722. 

is commonly known, but which has scarcely been noticed. Fract- 
ures of this kind are effects due entirely to long-protracted ad- 
verse conditions of the feet, such as have been already dAvelt upon. 
I have never met with a case of fracture of either coffin or navicular 
bone Avhere previous long-prevailing diseased action of the foot Avas 
not manifest. 

In the instance represented above, the reader may see that the 
bone was extensively ulcerated and excavated like a decayed tooth, 
and at last the fracture occurred in two lines diverging from the 
excavated center to the anterior margin of the bone, where it is 
connected to the coffin-bone. But I must request the reader to go 
back with me to see the order and sequence of occurrence; the ex- 
cavation of the navicular bone is a secondary occurrence, an effect 
due to preceding and continuous deviations from health. 

The coffin-bone in Fig. 722 is wasted doAvn to about two-thirds 
of its natural depth and substance. Its semi-lunar crest is gone; 
there is no sufficient concavity behind the plantar surface of the 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 



817 



coffin-bones; tendons and other strong bands, requiring strong, bony 
points for attachment, laclc such hold, and tbe sj)ace between the 
navicular bone and the tendon'upon which it glides is diminished; the 
joint-capsule lacks space, all the functions are deranged, and the 
navicular bone, if in normal condition, would be too big for the 
lessened space; it becomes flattened, its substance is diminished, 
and is so much weakened, that at length it breaks down under less 
than ordinary exertion. 

Fig. 723 represents another case of fractured navicular bone, 
in which all the complications arc still more manifestly extensive 




Fig. 723. 

than in the last. The foot that supplied this specimen was ob- 
tained after the horse was slaughtered, and nothing was learned of 
the history of the case. 

The fractures in both cases had occurred long before the horses 
were destroyed, and there was ample evidence to my mind that the 
horses had been made to work almost as long as they lived, judg- 
ing, as I did, by the appearance of the feet and shoes, and by the 
pathological conditions revealed by dissection. It may seem to 
some that there is not much to be learned from seeing these dried 
bones! still less from engravings from them! All depends u])on 
the kind and extent of research which follows from the promptings 
of such incidents; and I cannot refrain from stating that all that 
is presented to the view, though it be as much as could be saved, 
is insignificant compared to what the explorer sees in the researches 
and dissection. Much more is removed than can be left, and each 
layer of structures unfolds its own tale. 

53 



818 



DISEASES AND THBIE TEEATMENT. 



All the subjects which supplied the specimens illustrated were 
selected on account of indications which led me to investigate them. 

When I first saw this animal after death, my whole mind was 
absorbed in the case, and it would have been of no use if I had only 
detached the foot, strictly so called, for examination. When trying 
to make out anything natural or unnatural about the foot, I always 
take a great part of the limb, so as to include the whole carpal 
region; and if a hind limb, then of the tarsal region. In this in- 
stance I divided the radius a little above the knee. I had per- 
ceived, in the condition of the leg, a rigidity induced by thickness 
and hardness of all the flexing apparatus of the foot, especially 




Fig. 724. 

from the fetlock-joint to the knee; the back sinews were as thick 
as the fore-arm of a man, and to the touch felt hard like a cable. I 
shall refrain from entering into a detailed description of the condi- 
tion of these parts, my object being now to show plainly how one 
may be drawn off the scent, and led to mistake an after-effect for 
the original state of the case— an effect for a cause. I know that 
the massive, hard bands were but symptoms of serious conditions 
beloAv; that it was a coiling of these bands, with the design of 
shortening their track, by which the range of bones could be held 
firm, and in a vertical line. With such notions I proceeded to dis- 
sect the limb, first by disarticulation at the pastern-joint, and 
placing the foot in the maceration-tub for six Aveeks; meanwhile I 
dissected the parts above, confirming my views of the conditions, 
and greatly extending my knowledge. In due time, the hoof be- 
coming detached, I dissected the foot, with the result shown in Pig. 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 819 

723. All practitioners, and horsemen of much experience, will have 
noticed that when horses begin to get uneasy on their fore-limbs 
and unsafe in action, — in other words, when permanent lameness is 
threatening, — a commonly pi^evalent charactei'istic anomaly is a 
tightness of the sinews just behind and below the knee. Atten- 
tion is usually fixed on that part, and all the rest overlooked. Yery 
early in my career I noticed these conditions, and doubted in my 
own mind the conclusion that a sprain had happened locally, to 
account for what was observed. 

It was long, however, before I arrived at any exact knowledge 
in the matter, or succeeded in doing anything beyond following 
the ordinary injurious and useless practice. But it was a good be- 
ginning to get rid of all mischievous interference. I next made out 
that the state of the limb was in some way caused by that of the 
feet — by the shoeing; for it never apj)eared in unshod horses if 
ever so severely exerted. Having determined that 1 had a foot- 
derangement to deal with, I then succeeded in curing cases, my 
remedy consisting in taking off the shoes, and taking measures for 
strengthening the hoofs. JSTor did I find it necessary to keej) the 
horses at rest, though it is not often practicable to find work that 
horses can do, and a gTOund surface congenial to their going bare- 
footed. But when the mind is awakened, and intent on the further- 
ance of an object, opportunities are made; and so it happened with 
me. I was in practice at Florence in those years, in a climate 
favorable for making some such trials as I aimed at prosecuting; I 
had the advantage of observing customs in other localities. 1 saw 
horses trained without shoes able to hold their own with those more 
systematically brought out on our plan, and perceived that their 
legs stood sound. So far, I had achieved little more than negative 
results for all practical purposes, because a plan that prescribes 
that horses must go barefooted does not accomplish any of the re- 
quirements of the art of farriery. The next stage in the inquiry 
was to determine the relative effects between good and bad shoe- 
ing, jsmd in what these respectively consisted. This I was able to 
do, though it was a work of much cost, labor, and years of time. 

Fig. 724 is a representation of the cofiin and navicular bones of 
one of the fore feet of a horse similarly affected in both; with the 
difference in the one represented that a compound fracture of the 
navicular-bone had occurred, as is plainly exhibited. Firm reunion 
of the fragments was completed before the horse was destroyed. 

The subject was an aged grey, latterly white, gelding, in his 
time well known to horsemen of Edinburgh as an exceptionally good 
horse, a fast-goer in the field and on the road. 

In 1861 the pupils of the new Veterinary College bought the 
poor horse, in a miserable state of lameness, as a subject to dissect. 
One of the complications, which was a source of inconceivable 
agony, was a quittor. As it appeared that relief might soon be 
afforded, and the case made very instructive, the subject was taken 
up for treatment, with the most satisfactory result. Eelief from 
pain was soon attained; and restoration ensued, and progressed as 



820 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT, 



rapidly as such complication admits of. It was subsequently ascer- 
tained that the horse had been unnerved two or three years previ- 
ously, had been for years lame, and for some time had worked in a 
cab. The recovery of the horse having been advanced, so that he 
was capable, under special care, of rendering some service, the 
question arose what should be done with him. We had no require- 
ment for such services as might have been rendered on a farm, and 
it was resolved not to part with him; the only alternative was 
taken of putting an end to his life; and finally of making the best 
possible use of the case for future instruction. 




Fig. 725. 

Dissection of the feet revealed more than we had made out 
during the life of the animal; the fractured bone was not predicted, 
nor was it possible, beyond guessing, that it could have been, amidst 
the mass of change and destruction of parts; but in the sequel it 
has been of inestimable value as a pathological specimen, unique, 
as far as I have seen, in character. I have seen no other instance, 
nor do collections contain one, of a navicular-bone, as the sequel to 
inveterate degeneracy, being broken into so many fragments, and 
then uniting so completely, the foot rendered painless, and the horse 
becoming, to a possible degree, useful. 

Fig. 725 represents another complicated case in which extensive 
disease and wasting of the coffin-bone was followed by fracture of 
the navicular-bone. The subject, a grey cart-horse, was taken to 
the New Veterinary College in 1864, when excessively lame, and 
left there for treatment. At the time no oj^inion was pronounced 
on the case; the hoi'se had been under treatment, 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 



821 



The foot was mangled, and shod with a bar-shoe and interven- 
ing leather sole, all combining to augment and perpetuate the pain- 
ful condition of the animal. The limb of the afflicted foot was kept 
as much as possible flexed, obviously so at the knee, and the foot 
reposed upon the front of the hoof — not the natural bearing-surface, 
but the anterior surface of the wall — tilted over. The knee was 
swollen to twice its natural size. 

After the lapse of a few days, with persistence of pain and all 
the urgent symptoms unabated, the parties who left the horse were 
advised that an unfavorable issue of the case was prognosticated. 1 




Fig. 726. 

had formed the opinion that either the coffin or navicular-bone was 
fractured, yet nothing could be made out to enable one to deter- 
mine the fact positively. Difficulty was encountered in discovering 
the real owner of the horse, and it was not until twenty-nine days 
had elapsed that consent was obtained to have it destroyed. Time 
and care being taken for the maceration of the parts, so that dis- 
section could be proceeded with, the ultimate revelations were the 
state of the two bones represented. The case is remarkable, for 
the presence of at least one phenomenon I have in no other instance 
met with, that is, fracture of the navicular-bone without the appear- 
ance of any antecedent excavation of its substance by ulceration. 
There were other more remarkable appearances, but which could 
not be kept for exhibition, and could onty be observed by the eye 
and touch of the dissector; the fractured bone was held together by 
its investing ligamentous textures, and I could feel the bone yield 



822 



DISEASES AND THEIR TEEATMENT. 



at the broken part, under pressure of the thumb, while the hne of 
fracture was scarcely to be seen. Neither was there any blush of 
marginal redness to indicate the commencement of reparatory 
vascular action. But, although that navicular-bone is exceptional 
among my morbid specimens of the kind, in regard to the absence 
of obvious excavation, I am not prepared to testify to its being in a 
normal state; on the contrary, I suspect — for no analysis of the 
bone, still in my possession, has been pei-formed — that its constitu 
tion was defective, and that the bone was destitute of natura 
strength. The wasted, deformed, and weakened state of the coffin- 
bone is extraordinary, and quite accords with all my experience, 
gained by these investigations, that such casualties of the navicular 




Fig. 727. 

bone are secondary, and due to the partial destruction of both sub- 
stance and functions of the coffin-bone. 

Fig. 726 illustrates a typical case of advanced navicular disease, 
apart from the complications which commonly ensue as additional 
consequences. 

The never absent accompanying phenomenon, atrophy of the 
coffin-bone, is, however, well marked in this case. In the navicular 
bone itself, two openings into chambered cavities of the bone are 
seen about the middle of the hindmost and lower surftxce, and an 
oblong excavation is observable on the lower inner margin of the 
bone. 

The above figure represents a case of navicular disease, not 
essentiall}^ different in character from that last described; only 
that this was a worse case, with more complications and extensive 
ulceration. I adduce it, not to show the little difference, or to pro- 
duce a duplicate, but because the case has a history worth relating. 



PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 823 

The subject was a grey mare of high courage and breeding, be- 
longing to Mr. James Stewart, cab-proprietor at Edinburgh. The 
mare had been, for an unascertained length of time, lame of both 
fore feet, when she was bought for a trifle by Mr. Stewart, who 
thereupon took her to the New Veterinary College shoeing-forge, 
to get her shod. This happened in the autumn 1858. I had 
charge of the shoeing; that is, did the chief part of the work in 
this as in similar cases — prepared the feet and fitted the shoes. 
Mr. Stewart, being then a beginner in business, and driving the 
mare himself, procured abundance of work, so that in the space of 
seventeen days she wore out a strong set of shoes, and was brought 
back to the forge to be re-shod, which was done as before. At the 
expiration of about the same number of days as before, the mare 
was brought to be shod again for the third time; and this time the 
intelligent owner was elated at the way his mare was going, and 
at the manifest improvement that had taken place, notwithstanding 
the inordinate amount of work the animal was doing, in drawing a 
four-wheeled carriage over the hilly streets of Edinburgh. I may 
state that the progressive improvement in the action of the mare 
went on up to recovery to the extent of complete freedom from 
lameness. There was no delay in the effect following the cause, or 
rather, inversely, of effects ceasing when the causes that produced 
and kept them up were removed. The result was so much the 
more gratifying to the owner of the mare and all concerned, from 
the fact that she pi'oved to be one of the best animals of her class 
in Edinburgh, and continued to work uninterruptedly for three 
years, thereby helping in no small degree to give the worthy owner 
a start in business. 

I shall not dwell on the termination of the mare's career, beyond 
stating that during the severe frost in 1862 she encountered an 
accident by falling on the frozen snow which encumbered the 
streets of Edinburgh that winter. One of the bones of the knee, 
the OS magnum, was fractured transversely through its narrow 
axis, and the animal was consequently destroyed. 

On dissecting both the fore feet, it was found that their condi- 
tion was nearly the same; the degree of ulceration of the navicular 
bone, and diminution, with subsequent incrustation of the coffin- 
bone, was a little in excess in the specimen from which the illustra- 
tion was drawn. But most remarkable and instructive of all was 
the obviousty improved state of those ulcerated bones that had 
taken j)lace. As was seen by the mare's action, her feet revolved, 
if not fully, at least fairly upon the ground, and that was quite 
manifest by the appearance of the joints. The cartilage lining the 
navicular bone, less the bi-eaches on the surface, was smooth and 
white, and the synovial capsule healthy, and in full secreting func- 
tion. In fact, the joint was amply lubricated and free. 

In anticipation of reasonable inquiries as to how the good result 
was brought about in this ease, I answer. By shoeing. What 
principle or mode of shoeing? — Eational method, elaborated after 
long individual experience, founded on observation, and on the ex- 



824 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



perience of able men of all times and countries ; in other words, by 
means which are only acquired by application of mind and hands 
for years to the art. I used no differently made shoe for that mare 
from those I use for other horses of her class doing the same work; 
viz., shoes with calkins adapted to the pavement and hills of 
Edinburgh; nor was there anything special in the way I fitted her 

shoes; they were adapted to the mo- 
tion and requirement of the feet in the 
mare's particular case, according to the 
principles inculcated in this work. No 
other agencies were used beyond the 
ordinary measures I recommend for 
the feet of all horses, to be hereafter 
noticed. 

The two following and the last fig- 
ures of the series are representations 
of the different structures of the same 
foot; a section of the hoof, and the 
coffin and navicular bones of the off 
fore foot of a horse, whose case I am 
about to describe by the help of these 
illustrations. 

The subject was a five-year-old Cly- 
desdale stallion, for which a nobleman 
in the west of Scotland j^aid £300, and 
at whose instance, not many months 
after the purchase, I was called to at- 
tend the animal, not, however, until too 
late for my services to be of any avail. 
The horse died a few hours before 1 
reached the^ place where he was, in 
Ayrshire. With the splendid carcass 
lying extended before me, I made in- 
quiries into the history of the case, and 
after receiving the necessary replies for 
my purpose, and obtaining permission 
to bring away the feet of the animal, 
1 removed them and returned with 
them to Edinburgh. The disease from which the horse had suf- 
fered was inflammation of the feet, and death ensued through 
long-continued irritant fever, ending in a blood-contaminated 
system. 

Fig. 728 is that of the inner half of the hoof of the off fore foot; 
the section, made longitudinally, passes through the middle of the 
frog, sole, and wall. The bulging down of the sole and its thin 
state are apparent; the Avhite spot represents an opening through 
which an excrescence of the inflamed texture protruded. 

Fig. 729 represents the coffm and navicular bones, upon the 
latter of which no further remarks are necessary than to state that 
that bone was found in perfect health. But to the coffin-bone and 




PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS OF FEET. 



825 



hoof together I must devote myself, with the view to make intel- 
ligible what I have to state. 

1 must premise my description of the case by stating that all 
four of this horse's feet were alike affected, and almost in the same 
degree, the ravages sustained by the two fore feet somewhat pre- 
ponderating. My information obtained on the oi'igin of the disease 
recompensed the journej^ to Ayrshire; I learned that one hind foot 
was first affected; a fissure appeared in the front of the hoof, 
always a painful affection until the cause is removed, and a cure 
effected. Lame of one hind foot, and all the hoofs in a weak state, 
inflammation set up in the other hind and over-burdened one; then 
reaction, with inflammation of the other hind foot, and first one 
foi'c foot and then the other became affected; the result was that 




F-iG. 729. 

the animal was doomed to lie suffering, because he had not a foot 
that he could stand upon. All this was endured for several weeks 
before the horse succumbed.* 

Reference again to Fig. 729 shows the flattened lower portion 
of the coffin-bone, and in some measure the extent to Avhich it be- 
came reduced; not, as in chronic cases, slowly, but rapidly — all in 
the space of a few weeks. (The drawing taken of the one must 
be regarded as representing the state of the coffln-bones and the 
hoofs of all four feet.) 

I devoted several months, at intervals, to the dissection and 
study of three out of the four feet, the two fore and the hind one 
first affected; and I never investigated such a case before. The 
ravages that disease had made Avere entirely confined to the lower 



*In reference to this special case, we should never allow the dissolution of the 
suspensary power to progress to an incurable extent, hut relieve the laminsje of the 
strain by taking oil the weight either by slinging or throwing the horse, cooling 
the feet, poultice, bleeding, and as soon as the inflammation subsides to blister the 
coronet thoroughly. — Frof. Hamill, (See Laminitis.) 



826 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

surface of the coffiiii-bono. I wish particularly to place this fact on 
record, for reasons that will hereafter appear. Beneath the bottom 
of the coffin-bones and the thin mutilated soles of the hoofs was 
deposited a dense layer of lymph, about one-eighth of an inch thick, 
in which were innumerable particles of bony deposit, imparting 
a feeling as if sand had been sprinkled over the inner surface of the 
hoof Such had been the rapid destruction, partly by absorption 
and partly by casting off of useless matter. 

As to the treatment to which the horse had been subjected, I 
have little to say. I saw that the current orthodox teaching had 
been complied with, in the form of cutting away the hoof, and soak- 
ing the I'eet with moisture; every one in attendance had doubtless 
done his best according to his intelligence, and was to be pitied 
rather than blamed for want of the right kind of knowledge of the 
pathological conditions. 

The specimens of disease, illustrated and briefly described in 
this section, oifer material for much more lengthy comment. My 
purpose in publishing these is to prove the fundamental fact that 
lameness is a consequence of destructive causes, is associated with 
changes of structure in the foot, and that it is only by a patient 
and thorough inquiry into these anatomical changes, that what I 
maybe allowed to call the natural history of lameness can be under- 
stood, its causes prevented, and the proper remedial measures based 
on well-defined knowledge applied. This is a line of inquiry which 
I particularly commend to members of the veterinary profession, 
many if not the majority of whom have grown up in the habit of 
looking upon the hoof merely as the investing termination of the 
limb, and not taking cognizance of the whole digit as a complex 
organic structure, to understand which, in health and disease, dis- 
sec1?ion of a large number of specimens is indispensable. 

Laminitis, or Founder. 

Laminitis, or Founder, may be described as simply congestion 
or inflammation in the feet. It may be severe or moderate 
according to the degree of disturbance. If inflammation runs 
high and is allowed to continue, it is liable to produce so much 
disorganization as to induce loss of the hoof, which is however 
rare, or so much change of structure in the feet as to make the 
horse ultimately so stifl" and sore or so much of a cripj^le as to be- 
come practically worthless excepting for slow, easy work. 

There are two stages of this disease, acute and chronic. The 
first produces a high state of excitement and inflammation of the 
sensitive lamina, and more or less of the internal structure of the 
foot generally. The second, a morbid or insensitive feeling of the 
parts generally. The first or acute stage can be invariably 



LAMINITIS, OR FOUNDEE. 



827 



cured, if treated properly, which is not at all difficult to do. The 
second or chronic stage is not curable ; but may be palliated to 
a limited extent. 

Symptoms. — At first, if the result of exhaustion and chill, 




Fig. 730. — Position of horse when suffering severe attack of l.,aminitis. 

there will be the marked effects of great disturbance of the circu- 
lation so that there may be a general stiffness and soreness, with 




Fig. 731. — As the horse usnally lies down when suffering from Laminitis. 

high, quick pulse, etc., which will be soon followed by tenderness, 
congestion, and inflammation in the feet. To relieve the pain in 
the feet he endeavors to throw his weight upon the hind ones. 
He advances them in front, resting principally on the "heels^ 



828 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



when the hind ones are drawn well under him, something like the 
position shown in Fig. 730. On backing him. he backs with evi- 
dent reluctance ; when forced back, he 
drags one foot after the other, evincing 
considerable pain in doing so. When moved 
forward, he walks on the heels, his move- 
ments being slow and difficult. He will 
often be found lying down, as removing 
weight from the feet gives relief ; and while 
down he will usually point with his nose 
toward the feet. Sometimes the inflamma- 
tion may be in but one of the fore feet, 
or sometimes in the hind feet, which is not 
common ; and in some isolated cases may 
have inflammation in all four feet ; but it 
is usually limited to the two fore feet. 

Causes. — Laminitis is very apt to occur 
from overtasking the feet by pounding them 





Fig. 7.3 2 -An ideal illus- 
tration of the arteries of 
the foot injected. 

over a hard or rough, frozen 

road, or leaving the horse 

standing while heated and 

exhausted, and especially 

where a current of cold air 

strikes him ; indirectly by 

prick or binding with nails, 

or continued injury from a 

badly applied shoe, or any 

cause of continued strain 

or injury to the feet ; driv- 

FiG. 733.— An ideal drawing of the ing through a river while 

veins of the foot Injected. ^ ^^^^ . ^^shing the feet 

while warm and neglecting to dry thena ; frequently also from 



LAMINITIS, OE POUNDBE. 



829 



overloading the stomach by eating too freely of oats or other 
grains, as we often see when a horse gets loose during the night 
and gets to the oat-bin ; or drinking too freely of cold water 
when heated and exhausted. It may also be caused by inflam- 
mation passing from other parts of the body to the feet, but not 
often ; but by whatever cause, it is the 
same, namely, excess of blood in the feet. 
The better to convey an idea of the 
large amount of blood passing through 
the feet, I include a description of the 
same by an excellent old author : — 




Fig. 734.— Bottom of foot 
with hoof removed. 

The trunk of the artery 



"As the quantity of horn necessary 
for the defense of the foot is considera- 
ble, a large quantity of blood is dis- 
tributed to it for the purpose, and is 
supplied by two large arteries which 
pass down on each side of the pastern ; 
these give off considerable branches to 
the frog, cartilages, and coronary ring. 

enters at the inferior and posterior part of the coffin-bone, and di- 
vides into eight branches, which pass out at the circumference or 
angle of the toe, and give off innumerable branches about the in- 
ferior partof the laminated struct- 
ure, especially about the toe. The 
distribution of the blood to the 
frog is remarkable. Here we find 
several branches of considerable 
size without giving off other 
branches, as in the other parts of 
the foot, until they arrive near 
the surface, when they divide 
into innumerable branches, sup- 
plying the skin or secreting sur- 
face of the frog, and communi- 
cating with those of the skin of the sole, or sensitive sole, so that the 
frog and sole form one continuous surface of skin of great vascu- 
larity and sensibility ; but greatly inferior in both respects to the 
laminated substance which is more richly organized, both as to 
blood-vessels and nerves, than any other part of the body." — White. 

I include a number of illustrations which give an excellent idea 
of the large amount of this circulation ; afeo of the hoof and pedal 
bone, showing that this sensitive structure is covered by an un- 




FiG. 735. — Interior view of the hoof. 



830 



DISEASES AND THBIE TEEATMBNT. 



yielding shell of horn which makes the inflammation when very- 
intense, extremely painful, and rapidly destructive in its effect. 

Treatment. — It is evident when such a large volume of blood 
is obstructed, and active inflammation is set up, that there must 
not only be great local but general disturbance, and that it is of 
the greatest importance to relieve this as quickly as possible, if re- 
sults would be prevented, which would destroy the health and 
mobility of the foot. The inflammation is primarily limited to 



1. Transverse section 
of the hoof. 

2. Horny laminaB. 

3. Vascular laminae. 

4. 5. Small cells be- 
tween the podophyllous 
and keraphyllous tissues. 

6. Section of the tubes 
of the hoof. 

As will be seen this beau- 
tiful structure is entirely 
destroyed in front part 
of foot as shown in Figs. 

738 and 743. 



Fig. 786. — Section of hoof laminae largely magnified. 

the sensitive lamina and sole, which, if allowed to go on, seriously 
involves the periosteum and bone, when it is called peditis, which 
is of a more serious character, referred to hereafter. I will first 
give the treatment pursued by Dr. Summerville,* with whom I 
studied, which is practically the standard treatment used by all 
the old practitioners. I include it mainly because I know of its 
efiectiveness from personal experience. If the case can be treated 
as soon as the disease begins to develop, bleed from the neck vein 
from four to ten quarts, according to the size and condition 
of the horse ; that is, if the horse is large and fat, and 
consequently full of blood, and the attack severe, then the larger 
quantity mentioned may be taken. Afterw^ard give a purgative 




*Dr. William Summerville, No. 127 Erie Street, Buffalo, N. Y. 



LAMINITIS, OE FOUNDEE. 



831 



ball, not enough to physic severely, but to open the bowels freely, 
which, as explained definitely under the head of " Physicing," for 
an average sized horse 
should be from 4 to 7 
drachms aloes, 1 dr. 
ginger, barsoap enough 
to make a mass, and 
made into a ball. Af- 
ter the fore shoes have 
been removed, poultice 
the feet thoroughly with 
bran and cold water as 
follows : Fill two 

small bags, sufficiently 

largo to hold three or 
four quarts, with bran, 
put a foot into each, 
and tie loosely around 
the top with a string. 




Fig. 737. — Front view of the pedal-bone in a 

healthy condition. See the great 

contrast with Fig. 740. 



Keep wet either by 
pouring on water, or 
by putting each poul- 
ticed foot into a bucket 
of water. This man- 
ner of poulticing 
should be kept up for 
four or five days, when 
the shoes may be tacked 
on and the horse exer- 
cised a Httle. Cloths 
Avet with cold water 
tjhould be tied around 
the coronet, and the 
soles stuffed with flax- 
seed meal, or any other 

means of keeping the feet wet for a week or two can be used. 
The horse should have tepid water to drink, and warm bran 

mashes during the operation of the medicme. If the disease is 




Fig. 738. — Posterior view of a healthy pedal-hoiiu. 



832 



DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. 



stubborn, as is rarely the case, a second ball may be given after 
an interval of four or five days. All the cases coming under my 
observation in the Infirmary during the year in which I was con- 
nected with it, and all that have been treated under my super- 
vision since then, invariably yielded to this treatment. If the 
case has run two or three days without treatment, or not been 
treated properly, I would advise opening both toes by thinning 
out their soles, and the feet put into moderately hot water so as 
to extract a quart or more of blood from each. If this cannot be 




Fig. 739.- 



-Showing the great change of structure produced by severe 
inflammation. 



done, then opeu the veins freely at the coronet. If treated as di- 
rected it is rarely that the attack will not pass off in four or five 
days. 

Dr. Charles Meyer advises the following mode of treatment, 
which he has used with great success: — 

" If the tviiimal is taken within the past twenty-four hours, have 
the shoes removed, and put the feet into a tub of hot water. Wind 
flannel wrappings or bandages around both legs up to the elbows, 
and keep them constantly wet with hot water for from two to three 
hours. In the meantime have the horse well covered with blankets, 
and give the following remedy : — 

30 drops fluid extract aconite. 
1 ounce oil of sassafras. 
3 ounces salt-petre. 
1 pint linseed oil. 



LAMINITIS, OR FOTJNDEE. 



833 



" This is to be given at once. There will be a profuse perspira- 
tion in from fifteen to twenty minutes. Keep the blankets on 
about six hours, then remove and put on dry ones. Keep wet 
swabs on the horse's feet, and stand him on wet clay. All stiffness 
and soreness in the feet will be removed in from thirty-six to 




Fig. 740. — Internal view of Fig. 737, showing the great displacement 

of pedal bone. The dotted lines show the point to which 

the foot should be trinfimed. 

seventy-two hours. In the meantime give one of the following 
powders :" — 

3 ounces bicarbonate of potash, 
6 ounces nitrate of potash, 

Make into six powders, and give two every eight hours until well. 



Dr. William Shepherd, of 
Ottawa, Illinois, in an address 
before the State Veterinary As- 
sociation, advised treatment as 
follows : — 

" In the treatment of .acute 1am- 
initis, as soon as possible after 
having discovered that the animal 
has been foundered in the feet, 
or has acute laminitis, which is the 
same thing, have the shoes taken 
off, place the feet in a deep tub of warm water in which some hay 
has been put to form a soft foundation for the tender feet to rest 

53 




Fig. 741. — Showing the direction of 

the bone-cells as thrown out from 

the podophyllous tissue. 



834 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



on. Keep them there for about an hour, then take them out and 
put them in warm j^oultices, composed of equal parts of slippery 
elm bark and linseed meal. Be sure the poultices envelop the 
whole hoof. Have a deep soft bed jjlaced under the animal. Give 
a purgative, which should be one-half of the ordinary dose, as su- 
perpurgation is apt to follow otherwise. If Barbadoes aloes be the 
agent employed, four drachms will be found sufficient. Give a dose 
of aconite, say ten drops every twenty minutes, until the animal 
has been thrown into a profuse perspiration. Cover him with 
warm blankets. The poultices should be changed twice a day, and 
after taking them off put the feet in water, as above recommended. 
Continue this treatment for three or four days at least. Feed no 
grain, simply bran mashes, vegetables, and hay. When shoeing 



\i f%^^-, 




Fig. 742. — Positiou of the bones of the foot iu a healthy condition. 

the animal, see that the shoes are wide-webbed, the hoof-surface 
being convex, still leaving sufficient flat surface for the wall of the 
hoof to rest comfortably on. If it is a valuable beast, have hhn 
turned out on low land pasture in about two weeks after the com- 
mencement of the attack. Should he be stabled, keep damp swabs 
on while he is housed. This treatment is applicable to either acute 
or sub-acute, which I have here treated as one disease, and which, 
in fact, it is." 



Dr. Hamill Advises. 

If there is simply a congestion of the extremities and fever, 
then treat as a fever locally and generally. Give as sedatives 
aconite and niti-e internally, with cooling applications locally to 
the feet. If the inflammation is so extreme as to cause a de- 
struction of the suspensory power of the laminae, then it is advis- 



LAMINITIS, OE FOUNDEE. 



835 



able to bleed quickly. If purgatives are advisable, give calomel 
and aloes in the proportion of 1 to 2 drachms of calomel to 4 to 7 
of aloes. 

In a conversation with Dr. Walton (house surgeon of Co- 
lumbia Veterinaiy College) on this subject, he advised treatment 
as below, and the better to explain it, referred to treatment pur- 
sued in the management of a very bad case, as follows: — 

" The horse had been driven through a rain-storra twenty miles ; 
was stiff in all four feet, and unable to stand. The shoes were re- 
moved, and poultices applied to the feet. At first, aconite 15 drops, 
then 10 drops an hour were given for the first 3 or 4 hours. At 
the same time, as the horse was in considerable pain, hypodermic in- 




FiG. 743. — Abnormal condition of foot caused by Laminitis. 

jections of about two grains morjDhine twice a day, J oz. dose ni- 
trate of potass four times a day, were given. Water was given 
freely. He recovered in four or five days. His temperature was 
105°. As soon as the fever commenced to abate, the aconite was 
reduced to five drops about every three hours." 

Prof. Williams says : — 

'' Should there be much fever, I know of no treatment so ef- 
fectual as aconite in repeated doses, giving 20 drops of the tincture 
of the root every two hours in water, until the pulse decidedly falls. 
If the pain is very severe, I advise giving attention to this first 
by administering one or two full doses of opium or morphine. Por 
local treatment to the foot, I advise enveloping in large warm 
poultices, or wrap in numerous woolen cloths, and keep them wet 
with hot water. After the urgent S3nnptom8 have passed off, cold 
instead of hot apphcations will prove most effectual. 



836 DISEASES AND THEIR TEEATMENT. 

A country horse doctor of my acquaintance, who is a good 
deal of a genius in his way, treated laminitis with decided success 
as follows : — 

" Eirst, j)ut the foot of the horse, up to the knees or over, into as 
hot water as ho can bear, to which add one pound of mustard, and 
have a man on each side with a sponge apply the water from the 
tub to the chest and shoulders for twenty-five or thirty minutes, 
adding mere hot water as it cools. Next, take him from the bath 
to a close stall, and cover with three or four heavy blankets, and 
let the men rub his legs for half an hour, then bleed in plate-veins 
(the large veins running down the inside of the leg, above the knee), 
taking from a pint to a quart of blood from each leg ; after which 




Fig. 744. — A sectional view of Fig. 741. An exact drawing of specimen 
showing grain of new growth of soft, spongy horn. 

apply some moderately stimulating liniment to the legs and shoul- 
ders to keep up the circulation, and give a dose of physic. Remove 
one blanket after another as he cools off, leaving on the last one, 
and give some soft feed. On the second day exercise the horse a 
little, and usually on the fourth day he is in a condition for work."* 

I have included this variety of treatment the better to give a 
clear understanding to stablemen and others as to what they can do 
in an emergency. The first method, which I will call Summer- 
villo's, I know to be entirely reliable ; at all events, I have not 
known of a single case out of a large number treated on this plan 

* The horse on no account should be put to work so soon if it can be avoided. 



LAMINITIS, OE FOUNDEE. 



837 




that did not entirely recover, without, so far as I could see, any 
evidence of the sole dropping. But as few have the conveniences, 
or know how to bleed, 
it is very important to be 
able to treat such cases 
without bleeding. On this 
account, I have added the 
details from other leading 
4)ractitioners, and, as will 
be seen, there is the best 
of assurance of other treat- 
ment being equally relia- 
ble. In any event, should 
the farmer or horse owner 
find his horse foundered, 
and no veterinary surgeon 
available, he can at least 

resort to the simplest meth- Fig. 745.— Posterior sectional view of pedal 
ods, such as putting the bone showing changed and weakened condition 
feet in a tub of hot wa- ■ ^""^"^ *^^ «^^^* °^ inflammation. 

ter, in which is a lot of hay or straw ; bathing the forward 

parts thoroughly, as di- 
rected by Dr. Meyer or 
the country horse-doctor. 
If there is much fever, 
and the fever medicine or 
aconite is available, give 
that. Give all the water 
the horse wants to drink, 
which should have the 
chill taken off ; open the 
bowels by enemas and 
back-raking ; give a lit- 
tle saltpetre in the water ; 
feed bran mashes and 
boiled oats, in addition to 
keeping the body com- 
fortably clothed, etc., or 
cover the feet with poul- 




FiG. 746. — Inferior view of bones shown in Fig. 
745. Part to the right diseased. 



838 DISEASES AND THEIR TEBATMENT. 

tices as directed. The important point is not to lose time in 
combating the difficulty from the start, but resort to all means 
available that will give relief, and thus a valuable horse may be 
saved, which under the ordinary circumstance of delay, indecis- 
ion, and ignorant bad treatment, would be inevitably ruined. 

I have forgotten to mention in place, that it is important, 
when there is extreme pain, to give relief for it by giving one 
to two drachms of powdered opium or five to ten grains of 
morphine, or, if available, by injecting under the skin one to two 
grains of morphine, as there is nothing that tells upon the strength 
of a horse so quickly as severe pain. 

Chronic Founder. 

When the inflammation is very intense, and is allowed to con- 
tinue very long, there is an exudate or lymph thrown out that 
separates the wall from the sensible laminae at the toe. In time 
there are immorphus horn cells, grown from the sensitive laminae, 
or phodofilous tissues of the coffin-bone, rmaking a soft, spongy 
horn, which, pressing against the wall in front, forces the anterior 
part of the bone downward against the sole, making it bulge 
downward, and in some cases perforating it, with a corresponding 
falling in of the wall above, producing what is termed a drop 
sole, which will be more or less marked according to the amount 
of disorganization. I give two very interesting specimens of ex- 
treme cases. The first was obtained by me of Prof. Cressy, of 
Hartford, Conn. ; the second from a specimen furnished by the 
Columbia Veterinary College, N. Y. They are drawn half size, 
and are exact reproductions of the originals. When there is in- 
flammation in the feet involving the bones, it is surprising to what 
degree the pedal bone is liable to become absorbed, changed in form, 
and have its texture weakened. Figs. 745 and 746, which were also 
obtained from Dr. Cressy, show the great amount of change and 
absorption that may be produced from this cause. They rep- 
resent the superior and inferior views of a bone that had been 
very much absorbed and turned up at the outer edge, cut in two, 
and united to sections of an ordinarily healthy bone, to show the 
extreme change produced in its form. The part outside the 
dotted lines was so porous that it could be looked through as 



CHRONIC FOUNDEE. 



839 




plainly as through the texture of coarse cloth, and its fibre was so 
weak that it would crumble between the fingers. Fig. 747, also 
obtained from Prof. Cressy, is another interesting specimen show- 
ing the upper view of 
another bone of the 
same character. Fig. 
748 is a side view of 
this bone, taken on an 
exact scale, showing the 
remarkable bending up 
of the edges, and its 
thinness, it being not 
over three-quarters of 
an inch at the pyra- 
midal process or front 
of the joint. Fig. 749 
is a bottom view of the 
same kind of bone, and 
was obtained of Dr. 
Walton of the Colum- 
bia Veterinary College. 

Being engraved from a photograph, it did not work up so well. 
Instead of being flat as it appears, the outer edges were bent up- 
ward over a quarter of an inch, with the edges ragged and broken. 

I include also a specimen 
showing eff'ect of inflamma- 
tion by the pressure of the 
toe-calk, and excessive rasp- 
ing of the wall 
These remarkable 
of structure in the foot gen- 
erally, especially in the ped- 
al-bone, when compared with that in a state of health, we see to 
be very great, and explain the destructive effect of inflammation 
when allowed to continue for any length of time. Reference can 
also be made to the many interestiug specimens following the 
chapter on Navicular-Joint Lameness showing this. Many of 
these specimens will show not only the navicular but the outer 
edge of the pedal-bone to be fractured. 



Fi(j. 747. —Showing absorption and change of form 
in pedal-bone, — the effect of inflammation. 




Fig. 



74:8. — Side view of the above, showing 
bending up of the edges, etc. 



Fig. 750. 
changes 



S40 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



In some extreme cases where inflammation runs high, and 
is allowed to continue very long, this separation of the wall 
from the internal structure may be continued so far as to cause 
ulceration of the coronet and loss of the entire hoof ; but this is 
rare. 

There is no cure for chronic founder. All that can be done is 
to palliate it to the best advantage. Some good practitioners, 

when they suspect any 
exudate at the toe, and 
a separation of the lam- 
inae, open tlie toe, so as 
to give free vent to it. 
This I would regard 
good practice. When 
there is some dropping 
of the sole, the best way 
to produce a healthy 
condition of cnculation 
and cell-growth is to 
put on tips or very thin 
shoes that will allow 
pressure upon the sole. 
(See Tip's, page 643) ; 
better still in addition 
would be allowing the horse to run on soft or gravelly ground. 
(See standing on ashes, etc., on next page). 




Fig. 749. — Inferior view of pedal bone, 
referred to in text. 



Last 



Pedttis, or Inflammation of the Os Pedis. 

When there is severe inflammation of the feet (laminitis) the 
Periosteum (membrane covering the bone) and the pedal bone 
sometimes become involved, when it is termed Peditis. 

This is indicated by the horse showing intense pain, getting 
up and l3dng down often. No local treatment seems to check the 
structural changes that go on ; it will run from one to two 
months; the horse has a ravenous appetite all the time, and as a 
rule does not lose flesh. If temperature rises, give sedative 
treatment, — opium, aconite with nitrate of potassa in small doses 



CATAEEH. 



841 




Fig. 750. — Showing efEect upon the bone of 
pressure of toe-calk and rasping hoof. 



(not over 1 ounce a day divided into two parts and given in 
water). When the temperature gets dow^n to 102°, stop internal 
treatment, and treat locally 
about as follows : It is nec- 
essary to have a stall with 
a soft bottom as saw-dust, 
ashes, etc. Occasionally it 
is best to dampen the ashes 
a little during the day, and 
rake them up so as to form 
a yielding body to the feet. 
Throw a little bedding over 
it at night, and also during 
the day to give the horse a 
chance to lie down. 

Treatment. — Apply cool- 
ing applications, such as 
cold swabs ; that is, cover 
the feet with two or three thicknesses of blankets, and keep wet 
with cold water. After the acute symptoms subside, blister. 
The point is to lower the fever, and check the flow of blood to 
the feet. 

Gatarkh. 

Catarrh, or "cold in the head," is an affection of the lining 
membrane of the nasal chambers and cavaties of the head. It 
consists in a congested or inflamed state of that membrane, giving 
rise to a glairy discharge from one or both nostrils, and when the 
head of the windpipe (larynx) is implicated, accompanied by a 
cough. 

Causes may be classed under predisposing and exciting, as 
the majority of young horses under five years of age may be said 
to be predisposed to this affection. The exciting causes are sud- 
den variations in the state of the temperature ; undue exposure to 
cold when an animal is in a heated state, especially after a hard 
day's work or drive ; standing in stables badly ventilated, or any 
place exposed to cold draughts. Perhaps the most common cause 
in young horses is placing them.in warm stables in the fall of the 
year immediately on taking them off" the pastures. A sudden 



842 



DISEASES- AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 




Fig. 751.— Suffering 
from cold. 



change from a cold to a hot temperature is more likely to cause 
catarrh than a change from a hot to a cold one. 

Symptoms. — If the horse is standing in 
the stable he will appear dull, and incline to 
hang his head in the manger ; the mouth is 
hot, and the pulse quickened and weak ; the 
coat is staring, and the lining membrane of 
the nose is reddened and injected. If the lar- 
ynx is involved, steady pressure on that re- 
gion will cause coughing. This is the con- 
gestive stage, which speedil}^ passes off, and 
exudation takes place from the vessels, caus- 
ing a discharge from the nostrils, at first 
watery, gradually becoming thicker, and of 
a yellowish color. In some instances this 
matter becomes pent up within the sinuses, of the head, and comes 
away in large quantities every of three or four hours. A watery 
discharge from the eye is also very often an 
accompaniment of catarrh. If these symp- 
toms become aggravated, the appetite is im- 
paired, the bowels are costive, and the foeces 
passed are of a clayey nature, the legs and 
ears are cold, and the breathing accelerated. 
Catarrh, if improperly treated, or the ani- 
mal kept at work and exposed to sudden 
changes of temperature, is very apt to de- 
scend to the chest, and is a prolific source of 
other and more serious diseases, as inflamma- 
tion of the lungs {'pneumonia), or of the cov- 
ering of the lungs {pleurisy), or of the bron- 
chial tubes {bronchitis). 

In the majority of cases catarrh is but a simple affection indi- 
cated by a little increase of pulse, a slight discharge from the nose 
and eyes, the hair roughened, not much appetite, and some cough, 
which is sometimes severe, and if the patient gets anything like 
proper usage or treatment no very serious results generally follow. 
Treatment. — At once place the animal in a comfortable, 
well-ventilated, loose box, as should be done in all affections of 
the chest ; blanket warmly, give aconite or some of the fever 



■■='^* 




Fig. 753. — Nose-bag. 



LAEYNGITIS, OE SOEE THEOAT. 



843 



medicine ; if the case is serious, as stated, it may run into general 
inflammation of the air passages, as bronchitis or laryngitis ; also 
band-rub and bandage the legs ; the clothing and bandages must 
be removed twice a day, and the body well rubbed over. Give 
one or two drachms of aloes in solution combined with half a 
drachm of powdered ginger. Steam the head by means of a nose 
bag partly filled with scalded bran, into which put an ounce or 
two of turpentine. Hang the bag on the head same as in cut, be- 
ing careful not to have it so tight around the nose as to heat or 
scald it, and be oppressive. Many cases have been suffocated by 
having the bag brought too tightly over the nose. A few repeti- 
tions of this will cause the nose to run freely. Nurse by giving bran 
mashes, boiled oats, etc. Rest and care will usually do the rest. 
In mild cases it is not necessary to use the nose bag. A few 
doses of tartar emetic and nitrate of potash may be given daily in 
a bran mash, and the throat rubbed with a stimulating liniment. 
If there is much inflammation of the throat and air passages, any 
good liniment may be applied on the throat and around the chest 
and bandaged as shown in cut. 

Laryngitis, or "Soee Throat," 

Consists in inflammation of 'the mucous membrane of the head 
of the windpipe (larynx). It is generally called "sore throat," 
and is a very common afiection among horses, occurring in a 
variety of forms, being some- 
times of a very acute nature, 
and running its course with 
great rapidity ; in other cases of 
a milder type, and assuming 
what may be called a sub-acute 
form. 

Causes are similar to ca- 
tarrh, as undue exposure to 
cold and variations in the 
temperature ; but in some 
seasons it appears as an epizootic disease, large numbers of horses 
becoming aifected with it about the same time. These cases are 
always of a typhoid nature, more especially when occurring in 
stables insufficiently ventilated. 




Fig. 753.- 



-Simple method of covering 
the throat. 



844 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



Symptoms of " sore throat " are well marked. The horse 
holds his head stiff, with his nose poked out, showing the muscles 
of the neck prominently; he has considerable difficulty in swal- 
lowing ; if he attempts to drink, part of the water is returned 




Fig. 754. — Method of covering the throat and chest for laryngitis. — From Mayhew. 

through his nostrils ; the throat is painful to the touch, and the 
least pressure excites a violent fit of coughing. At the com- 
mencement of the disease it is difficult to distinguish it from " dis- 




FiG. 75.5.— Good method of covering the throat for fomenting, 
or applj'ing stimulants, for laryngitis. 

temper" (strangles). By the third or fourth day the difference 
can be easily seen ; the usual tumor of distemper does not ap- 
pear. The pulse varies ; in some cases but little altered, in others 
very quick and weak. The coat is also staring, and the function 
of the kidneys partly arrested. In severe cases the breathing be- 
comes heavy and laborious. By the third or fourth day from the 



STBAI^GLES, OR HOESE DISTEMPEE. 845 

beginning of the attack, a greenish yellow matter is discharged 
from the nostrils. 

Treatment. — The general and local treatment should be very- 
much the same as for cold or catarrh, with the addition of a free 
use of counter-irritants to the throat, as mustard well rubbed in, 
or any good stimulating liniment, or even a light liquid blister. 
Aim to keep up the strength by feeding soft, easily digested food; 
bran mashes with a little boiled oats in it, carrots, etc., any food 
that he can eat easily. 

When the bowels are constipated, as is often the case, clysters 
of soap and water must be freely used. When the cough is se- 
vere and hacking, the following ball may be given once or twice 
a day: — 

, 1 drachm camphor. 

1 drachm powdered opium. 

2 scruples extract belladonna. 

If the horse is threatened with suffocation, the windpipe 
should be opened, and a tube inserted. (See description of opera- 
tion under head of Tracheotomy.) 

One of the leading practitioners of the country dicta,ted to the 
writer the following as his best treatment: — 

Counter irritation of the larynx. The best internal remedy would be, 

2 drachms extract of belladonna, 
1 ounce chlorate of potass, 

With a sufficient quantity of honey to be made into the form of an elec- 
tuary, and applied with a spoon to the back of the tongue. Also use one- 
half ounce doses of chlorate of potass put into a paU of water, and allowed 
to remain in front of the animal. 

Strangles, or Horse Distemper. 

This is another form of sore throat occurring mostly in young 
horses from two to five years old, and which is familiar to every 
one. Its design seems to be to throw some poisonous matter from 
the system, and the object should be to keep the strength of the 
animal up, and hasten suppuration. 

The exciting causes are similar to catarrh, transition from cold 
to heat, as from the pasture to the stable, change of stable from 
the country to the city. It occurs most commonly in spring, and 
is usually seen in cold, damp weather. 



846 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 




Fig. 756. — Horse with strangles. 



The general symptoms are very much the same as explained 
in the previous difficulties, the distinguishing points are, the horse 

is out of sorts ; the neck be- 
come sore and stiff; aja 
enlargements appears be- 
tween the branches of the 
jaw, which is hot and 
tender; there is some dis- 
charge from the nose. In 
ordinary cases the tumor 
goes on to suppuration; a 
copious discharge of thick 
yellow matter takes place from the nostrils ; in about a week the 
tumor has matured, becomes soft, and points, and either bursts 
or should be opened ; continues to 
discharge for some time, and 
gradual recovery takes place. 
But if the case is very severe it 
will grow worse, often threaten- 
ing to cause suffocation. The 
horse is able to eat or drink but 
little, and strength is lost rapidly. 
Treatment. — Provide a com- 
fortable, well- ventilated stall ; 
clothe warmly ; rub and bandage 
the legs ; nurse by giving bran 
mashes, boiled oats, carrots, etc. 
Bowels should be opened by in- 
jections. Use freely a poultice 
made of wheat bran and warm 
vinegar, changing as often as the poultice becomes dry, using the 
eight-tailed bandage until the enlargement becomes soft and can 
be opened, when relief will be prompt. Or the following treat- 
ment may be adopted, which is very good and in some cases 
may be preferable : Take spirits of turpentine, two parts ; 
spirits of camphor, one part ; laudanum, one part. Put this on 
the neck with a brush, if convenient, or in any -way to apply it 
without exciting pain, three or four times a day until soreness 
is caused. After each application, have ready three or four pieces 




Fig. 757. — Simple method of covering 
the tumor when stimulated. 



STEANGLES, OE HOESE DISTEMPEE. 



847 



of flannel, which should be a good thick article ; put these 
over the parts, and bind on with the eight-tailed bandage. Or 
hot fomentations and poultices can be freely applied to the tumor 




Fig. 758. — The eight-tail bandage. 

so as to encourage the formation of matter. When the tumor 
points, open it by cutting through the skin, and if necessary 




Fig. 759. — The eight-tail bandage as adjusted. 

enlarge the orifice by pushing in the finger, also small doses of 
saltpetre should be given in the feed, or the following pow- 
ders night and morning: — 

1^ ounces nitre. 
6 drachms tartar emetic. 

Mix and make into six 
powders. 

Sometimes the in- 
flammation is so deep 
as to cause serious sore- 
ness and swelling of 
the throat. In this 
case the horse must be 
nursed carefully by 
feeding warm gruel ; 
the drink should be 




Fig. 760. — Opening the abscess in strangles. 



warm ; grass or anything that will tempt the appetite should be 
given. • 



848 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 




GlajStders and Farcy. 

I consider these difficulties mainly to enable the detection of 
them to prevent their spreading, as they are extremely contagious 
to both men and horses. They are in- 
curable, and to guard against the possibility 
of danger when a case is suspected, the only 
safe way is to at once either isolate or de- 
stroy the animal. 

I depend mainly for my explanation of 

these diseases upon several old authors.* 

They fully agree with the statements of 

modern authors that it is practically useless 

to tamper with glanders. Farcy in its early 

stage can be controlled without difficulty, 

but the medicine inj ures the constitution seri- 

FiG. 761.— An ordinary ously, and in addition, it is rarely that the 

case of farcy. disease will not soon break out again or 

develop glanders. 

" Symptoms. — The distinctive appearances which glanders pre- 
sent may be slow in their development, and may continue for years, 
during which he may feed and work 
well, constituting chroozic glanders ; < 
they may run on rapidly, and in two < 
three weeks are well marked and so( 
come to a fatal termination, when it 
called acufe glanders. 

" The coat is rough and staring ; 1 
is usually hide-bound; the belly draw 
up, and constitutional disturbance exist 
the pulse being easily excited ; the mei 
brane lining the nostrils is of a leadi i 
hue ; the glands inside the lower jaw 
where the pulse is felt become enlarged, 
hard and nodular like a mass of peas or 
beans, especially on the side from which the discharge takes place 
— usually the left, sometimes the right, or even from both; — the 
discharge is clear and watery at first, becoming thicker and sticky, 
accumulating around the nostril ; cough may be present, but it is not 
an invariable symptom. As it advances, the discharge increases, be- 
comes purulent, of a greenish color, sometimes mixed with streaks 
of blood ; it is of a heavy specific gravity, and if droj^ped into 
water sinks to the bottom; it has a very off'ensive smell; the 




Fig. 763. — A piece of farcied 
skin. — From MayTiew. 



* Turner, Touatt, M. Volpi, White, and others. 



GLANDEES AND FAECY. 



849 



gland on .the affected side becomes hard and adherent to the side 
of the jaw ; ulcerating tubercles form on the nostrils, which have a 
mouse-eaten appearance, being raised and irregular at the edges, 
and depressed in the center ; they run into patches, and spread 
over the whole nasal septum ; weakness and emaciation set in. 
The ulceration in some cases extends to the cartilages, and even 
the_bones are sometimes implicated, when occasional bleedings en- 





Fiu. 763. — A bad case of 

farcy. Photographed 
from life by Prof. Cressy. 

sue. Cough is troublesome ; farcy 
buds appear in some cases over the 
body, and he dies a disgusting and 
loathsome spectacle. 

" Farcy. — Farcy and glanders are 
essentially the same disease, and 
depending on the same specific poison in the blood, but mani- 
festing itself in a different locality. It often occurs in connection 
with glanders, but is also seen independent of it, running into glan- 
ders as it progresses. 

" Symptoms. — It usually affects the superficial absorbents of the 
hind limbs in the groin, extending downward on the inside of the 
thigh, following the line of the lymphatics, also along the absorb- 
ents of the neck and shoulders ; little tubercles, or farcy buds, form, 
which in some cases become indurated and lie dormant for a time, 
but in most cases they go on to ulceration, producing angry, irregu- 
lar ulcers similar to the ulceration in glanders ; the virus being con- 
veyed along the absorbents, the buds extend in knots ; lines of 
corded and inflamed absorbents are felt extending from below up- 
ward, the hair being rough and bristling along their course ; by 
and by swelling of the legs sets in ; as it goes on he becomes 

54 



850 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. ~^- 

emaciated ; the ulceration attacks the nostrils, and glanders and 
farcy are combined, and death relieves him at last.* A disease 
called watery farcy must not be mistaken for genuine farcy." 

As there is liable to be considerable difficulty experienced in 
diagnosing glanders from common running of the nose from cold, 
strangles, or nasal gleet, I include the best description I can find 
of the symptoms as they progress. 

" The earliest symptom is an increased discharge from the nos- 
tril, small in quantity, constantly flowing, of a watery character 
and a little mucus mingling with it. Connected Avith this is an 
error too general, and highly mischievous with regard to the char- 
acter of this discharge in its eai'liest stage of this disease, tohen fhe 
riiischief/ro'in contagion is inost frequently 2^'''^'^^''-'''^^<^^- The discharge 
of glanders is not sticky when it may be first recognized. It is an 
aqueous or mucous, but small and constant, discharge, and is thus 
distinguished from catarrh, or nasal gleet, or any other defluxion 
from the nostril. It should be impressed on the mind of every 
horseman that this small and constant defluxion, overlooked by the 
groom and by the owner, and too often by the veterinary surgeon, 
is a most suspicious circumstance. 

"Mr. James Turner desei'ves much credit for having first or 
chiefly directed the attention of horsemen to this imjiortant but 
disregarded symptom. If a horse is in the highest condition, yet 
has this small aqueous constant discharge, and especially from one 
nostril, no time should be lost in separating him from his com- 
panions.! 

"This discharge, in cases of infection, may continue, and in so 
slight a degree as to be scarcely perceptible, for many months, or 
even two or three years, unattended by any other disease, even ul- 
ceration of the nostril, and yet the horse being decidedly glandered 
from the beginning, and capable of propagating the malady. In 
process of time, however, pus mingles with the discharge, and then 
another and a characteristic symptom appears. Some of this is 
absorbed, and the neighboring glands become affected. If there is 

* Fig. 762 is a very good illustration of a bad case of farcy photographed from 
Ufe. 

f Mr. Turner, during his experinaents, refers to a fine mare that had simply a 
slight running of mucus from one of the nostrils which he pronounced glanders, 
and highly contagious. Eegardless of his advice, the mare was sold. Months 
afterward he found a number of horses in a stable suffering from glanders, all hav- 
ing undoubtedly taken the disease from this mare, she having been worked and 
stabled with them. A large number of cases are referred to by others, caused by 
being put into the stalls that had been occupied by horses showing the above symp- 
toms; in one case one horse was the means of inoculating a whole troop of army 
horses, making it necessary to destroy them all. So it is best to be on the safe 
side by taking the greatest possible precaution when a case is suspected. 



-- GLAI^TDERS AND FARCY. 851 

discharge from both nostrils, the glands within the under jaw 
will be on both sides enlarged. If the discharge is from one nostril 
only, the swelled gland Avill be on that side alone. Glanders, how- 
ever, will frequently exist at an early stage without these swelled 
glands, and some other diseases, as catarrh, will produce them. 
Then we must look out for some peculiarity about these glands, 
and we shall readily find it. The swelling may be at first some- 
what large and diffused, but the surrounding enlargement soon goes 
ofp, and one or two small distinct glands remain ; and they are 
not in the center of the channel, hut adhere closely to the jaw on 
the affected side. 

"The membrane of the nose should now be examined, and will 
materially guide our opinion. It will either be of a dark purplish 
hue, or almost of a leaden color, or of any shade between the two ; 
or if there is some of the redness of inflammation, it will have a 
purple tinge ; but there will never be the faint pink blush of health, 
or the intense and vivid red of usual inflammation. Spots of ulcer- 
ation Avill probably appear on the membrane covering the cartilage 
of the nose — not mere sore places, or streaks of abrasion, and quite 
superficial, but small ulcers, usually aj)proaching to a circular form, 
deep, and with the edges abrupt and prominent. When these 
appearances are observed there can be no doubt about the matter. 
, "When ulcers begin to appear on the membrane of the nose, 
the constitution of the horse is soon evidently affected. The 
patient loses flesh ; his belly is tucked up ; his coat unthrifty, 
and readily comes off ; the appetite is impaired ; the strength 
fails ; cough, more or less urgent, may be heard ; the discharge 
from the nose will increase in quantity, it will be discolored, bloody, 
offensive to the smell .; the ulcers in the nose will become larger 
and more numerous, and the air-passages being obstructed, a 
grating, choking noise will be heard at every act of breathing. 
There is now a peculiar tenderness about the forehead. The mem- 
brane lining the frontal sinuses is inflamed and ulcerated, and the 
integument of the forehead becomes thickened and somewhat 
swelled. Farcy is now superadded to glanders, or glanders has de- 
generated into farcy, and more of the absorbents are involved. 

" At or before this time little tumors appear about the muscles, 
and face, and neck, following the course of the veins and the ab- 
sorbents, for they run side by side, and these the tumors soon 
ulcerate. Tumors or buds, still pursuing the path of the absorbents, 
soon appear on the inside of the thighs. They are connected to- 
gether by a corded substance. This is the inflamed and enlarged 
lymphatic ; and ulceration quickly follows the appearance of these 
buds. The deeper-seated absorbents are next affected ; and one or 
both of the hind legs swell to a great size, and become stiff and hot, 
and tender. The loss of flesh and strength is more marked every 
day. The membrane of the nose becomes of a dirty, livid color, 
the membrane of the mouth is strangely pallid. The eye is infil- 
trated with a yellow fluid ; and the discharge from the nose 
becomes more profuse, and insufferably offensive. The animal pre- 
sents one mass of putrefaction, and at last dies exhausted." 



852 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

As stated before, chronic catarrh is a discharge from the nose, 
affecting only the lining membrane of the nose ; and there may- 
be also enlargement of the glands, staring coat, and debility, so 
that it is sometimes difficult to distinguish one from the other 
during the early stage of glanders. Then again, ulcerated teeth 
may produce the same symptoms of discharge from the nose of a 
very offensive character, which may be taken for glanders. So 
that, when there are the characteristic symptoms of glanders, it is 
very important to look closely to the condition of the teeth — is 
there any enlargement or ulcerous secretions in their neighborhood, 
which may extend into the nasal cavity ? When the horse is val- 
uable, and there is any doubt about the case, the best way is to in- 
oculate some worthless horse with some of the virus ; if glanders, 
it will show itself very quickly. 

" The usual method of doing this is to first cut off the hair from 
the side of the neck or other part of the body about the size of a 
half dollar ; then take a lancet and pass it under the cuticle, or 
scarf-skin, only deep enough to bring a few drops of blood. The 
matter is to be introduced into this opening with a thin slip of 
wood of the form of the lancet. If the matter is glanderous, the 
part will become sore in two or three days, and a scab will form on 
it, which, in a few days will be thrown'off, leaving a peculiar kind 
of ulcer, Avhich will often spread rapidly, causing a painful swelling 
of the adjacent parts, with corded lytnphatics and farcy buds. In 
about a fortnight the glanders will appear." 

Prof. Robert Jennings, of Detroit, an old veterinarian of much 
experience, speaks in the Veterinary Journal of Comparative 
Medicine of a number of cases supposed to be glanders, which 
proved to be caused by ulceration of the teeth, which he cured 
without difficulty. Could refer to a number of cases of this char- 
acter if necessary. The test of inoculation would of course be 
conclusive. 

Treatment. — The following are favored prescriptions for 
farcy : — 

5 grains arsenic. 

1 drachm extract of nux vomica. 
For a drench in a pint of water twice a day. —Prof. Williams. 

1 drachm sulphate of copper. 
1 drachm iodine. 
This amount in a pint of water twice daily. — Prof. Williams. 



GLANDERS AND FAECY. 853 

J drachm sulphate of copper. 
5 drachm sulphate of zinc. 
3 drachms anise-seed. 
Make into a ball with common mass, and give once adiy. — Prof. Qamgee. 

1 drachm sulphate of copper. 
1 scruple calomel. 

3 drachma to J ounce common turpentine. 
Liquorice powder, enough to form the ball. — Prof. Coleman. 

3 drachms of sulphate of copper given every night in the food until the 
animal refuses to eat. After a few days repeat ; but if the case is bad, give 
the medicine in water as a drench, if he will not take it in his food. — An 
Old Practitioner. 

The following, which was obtained by the writer years ago in 
Ohio, was regarded very valuable for the cure of farcy. It was 
claimed to be a great secret, and was repeatedly sold for fifty dol- 
lars, as a specific for farcy : — 

J pound sulphur. 
^ pound saltpetre. 
1 ounce black antimony. 
If acute, give one tablespoonful twice a day. If sub-acute, once or twice 
a week. 

Two parties who have used the above, assured the writer that 
they had cured farcy with it, and regarded it a very valuable 
prescription. 

The ulcers are to be opened and dressed with disinfectants, 
and treated as for an ordinary ulcer, great care being taken not 
to get any on the persons, as, should there be the least abrasion of 
the skin, it would inoculate the system. 

It is proper in this connection to state that glanders may be 
developed in consequence of being kept in low, damp, badly ven- 
tilated stables, when debilitated by hard work and insufficient 
nourishment ; also as a sequel of weakening complaints, such as 
neglected or improperly treated strangles, influenza, etc. 

When glanders is known to have existed in a stable, or is se- 
riously suspected, it is advisable to thoroughly cleanse the manger, 
etc., so as to prevent the possibility of contagion. The most care- 
ful experiments have proved that glanders can only be communi- 
cated by the virus ; and though it may be dried and lay for even 
a year, it has still sufficient vitality to impregnate with the 



854 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

disease. It has been supposed that the only way to get rid of it 
would bo to tear down the stable and build it anew — an old vet- 
erinarian of much experience so stated to the author as his 
opinion. 

But the following precautions are now regarded to be entirely 
sufficient : The manger, rack, or whatever there has been within 
the reach of the horse, upon which matter could be thrown or 
could touch, — and this will include partitions and every part or ob- 
ject in the vicinity, — should be scraped, and scoured with soap and 
water and then thoroughly washed with a solution of chloride of 
lime, about a pint of the chloride to a pailful of water ; the walls 
should be whitewashed ; the pails newly painted, and the iron 
work exposed to a red heat ; the halters, clothing, etc., used upon 
the case should be burned. The only means of preventing the 
disease is to keep the stable cool and well-ventilated. Hot, close, 
badly- ventilated stables, it is claimed by all authors, are strong 
causes of the disease. 

There are many jockeys who make it a business to trade for 
horses of this character, fix them up by cleansing the nostrils, etc.^ 
and trade them off. As before stated, during the early stage it 
can only be detected by slight running from the nose. Such vil- 
lainous practice cannot be too severely condemned as a crime, 
which should be promptly punished to the extent of the law. 

Chronic Cough 

Is often a sequel of sore throat (laryngitis), as also of distemper 
(strangles), and is a disease from which, when once fairly estab- 
lished, complete recovery seldom occurs. It consists in a chronic in- 
flammation of the many glands imbedded within the lining mem- 
brane of the larynx, causing an irritation of that highly sensitive 
organ. The cough is easily excited by pressure externally, and is 
of a deep hollow nature, differing materially from the loud 
sonorous sound of the healthy cough. 

It is often associated with other diseases of the chest, as broken 
wind, thick wind, etc. The cough is generally most severe in the 
morning or after meals, and is always aggravated by gross feed- 
ing. In many cases chronic cough interferes but little with a 
horse's usefulness, especially if he is used for ordinary fai-m work, 
but it must be considered an unsoundness. 



CHEONIC COUGH. 855 

Treatment — If the horse has been affected for some time, 
treatment is generally very unsatisfactory, and must be more of 
a palliative than a remedial nature. If only recent, treatment 
may be undertaken with better chances of success. Give the 
cough ball as recommended for laryngitis, and apply the follow- 
ing liquid blister, or any good counter-irritant, externally, and in 
some cases great benefit will attend the use of setons. 

Olive oil. 

Oil of turpentine. 

Aqua ammonia, equal parts. 

To be shaken well and rubbed on with the hand. 

If occurring from intestinal disorder, the treatment of course 
must be directed to the proper seat. The medicinal treatment is 
greatly assisted by feeding the animal properly and regularly, 
giving small quantities of food at a time ; carrots in winter, and 
green food in summer should be given. Feeding nice clean corn- 
stalks is much better than hay ; if hay is fed, it should be bright 
and clean, or the dust shaken out of it, and dampened a little, 
and of this only a limited quantity should be given. If a greedy 
eater, either remove from his. reach the bedding, which he will be 
likely to eat, or put on a muzzle. The following are also excel- 
lent cough remedies : — 

1 drachm camphor. 
1 drachm, powdered opium. 
1 drachm powdered digitalis. 
1 drachm calomel. 

Make into a ball and give every second morning until six doses arp 
given. 

^ pint tar-water. 
^ pint lime-water. 

1 drachm powdered squills. 

This drink every morning in obstinate coughs. As a sedative to 
allay the violence of the cough, 

4 drachms nitre. 

2 drachms powdered opium. 

1 drachm prussic acid (dilute). 

Mix in a pint of mucilage or linseed tea, and give half a tumblerful three 
times a day. 



856 DISEASES AND TllBm TEEATMENT 

An old writer says, " I have known an obstinate cough cured 
by drenches composed of a sirup made of molasses and vinegar ; 
also by a decoction of garlic with linseed oil. Barbadoes tar and 
oil with balsam of sulphur, have also been employed as remedies for 
a cough." 

The following is also an excellent remedy : — 

2 to 3 dr. gum ammoniac. 
1 dr. powdered squills. 
1 dr. camphor. 

1 dr. ginger. 

2 dr. castile soap. 

20 drops oil of anise-seed. 
Sirup and flour enough to form a ball. 

A favorite prescription for curing cough : Put into alcohol all 
the tar it will cut ; add one-third in quantity of tincture belladonna. 
Dose, from one to two teaspoonf uls once or twice a day. 

A simple remedy which will sometimes work very nicely is, — 

Fluid extract belladonna 10 to 15 drops in a tablespoonful of -water on the 
tongue three or four times a day. If there is swelling of the glands of the 
neck, rub on a sharp stimulant or mild bHster. 

The. writer has used this very successfully, and, in fact, mainly 
depended upon it when on the road for allaying attacks of 
coughing. 

Heaves, or Broken Wind. 

" Heaves are indicated by an increased action of the flanks 
The inspiration is natural, but the expiration requires two efforts 
to expel the air. There is at times a short cough or grunt Avhile the 
air is being expelled from the lungs. Heaves are never found in 
the racing stable where the horses are properly fed. They are 
always found among cart or team horses which are fed upon large 
quantities of coarse food or hay. The seat of the disease is found 
in the air cells of the lungs in the form of enlargements and some- 
times ruptures of the cells. The cause of the disease is the immense 
quantity of hay forced into the stomach, the gTcedy animal, perhaps, 
not being satisfied with his allowance, eats the bedding. The 
bowels and stomach press hard against the diaphragm, and the 
lungs not having room to expand, the air cells are enlarged or rupt- 
ured, and the horse is said to have the heaves. Much has been 
said by different authors in relation to the curability of the heaves. 
Some advocate one means, some another, among which is feeding on 
the Western plains, or upon prairie hay which is said to contain a 
' rosin weed;' but like many other remedies, it is only palliative. 

" In 1842 Capt. Squiers, of Buffalo, N. Y., who commanded on 



HEAVES, OE BEOKEN WIIS'D. 857 

the steamboat ' Dewitt Clinton,' owned a valuable trotting mare 
called Caroline. She had the heaves badly. He took her, in the 
spring of that year, to Chicago, and turned her out to pasture on 
the prairie, for the purpose of curing the disease. In the fall he 
brought her back on his boat, with a quantity of prairie hay to 
keep her during the winter. During the time she ate the hay, she 
had no symptoms of heaves. But upon returning again to timothy 
hay, the heaves returned as bad as before being sent West. (The 
writer was personally acquainted with Captain Squiers, he being 
proprietor of the Courter House at that time, where the writer 
boarded with him.) 

" Prairie hay and grass is more laxative than timothy hay, and 
the animal cannot eat half as much in a given time of the former 
as of the latter. Consequently it promotes a condition favorable to 
respiration, by stimulating the bowels, and also prevents pressure 
upon the lungs. I think there are several other means of treatment 
equally as good as prairie grass or hay ; one is corn stalk fodder. 
My reason is founded on this basis, that it is by saccharine matter 
that most animals subsist, and the less compass occupied in the 
bowels the better. One quart of oats is equal to an armful of hay, 
and three pounds of corn leaves contain more sugar than six times 
the bulk of timothy hay. It will be seen, then, that the cause, 
treatment, and cure are marked in these few words ; that is, that 
heaves are produced by pressure upon' the diaphragm by too much 
food in the stomach and bowels, and is cured by lessening the 
quantity of food to occupy the same space. After the horse is 
turned out to grass a few days, the heaves will usually disappear, 
from the fact that the bowels are generally relaxed by exercise and 
pure air. The only treatment which will prove to any degree 
effective, is to give one of the following remedies : — 

3^ ounce powdered ginger. 
3^ ounce capsicum. 
Form into a ball and give three nights in succession ; then omit two or three 
nights, and give again three nights in succession. 

•'Or— 

8 or 10 drops tincture of phosphorus. 

Give in the drink several times a day for eight or ten days. 

" The horse should have regular exercise, and be watered often 
with a small quantity at a time, and have straw instead of hay to 
eat. Under this treatment heaves will disappear." * 

Prof. Law, in his Veteri/riary Adviser, says : — 

" Overfeeding on clover hay, sainfoin, lucern, and allied plants ; 
on chaff, cut straw, and other bulky and innutritious food, is the 
main cause for heaves. In Arabia, in Spain, and in California, 

* The foregoing is a synopsis of Dr. Somerville's lecture to the writer on 
"Heaves." 



858 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

where there is no long winter feeding on hay, and in our Territories 
where clover is not used, heaves is a disease that is virtually 
unknown ; it has advanced westward just in proportion as clover 
hay has been introduced as a general fodder for horses, and it has 
disappeared in England and JSTew England in proportion as the soil 
has become clover sick, and as other aliment had to be supplied. 
The worst conditions exist when a horse is left in the stable for 
days and weeks, eating clover hay, or even imperfectly cured, dusty 
hay of other kinds, to the extent of thirty pounds and upward 
daily, and then is suddenly taken out and driven at a rapid rate. 
Violent exertions of any kind, and diseases of the lungs, are also 
potent causes. It is mainly a disease of old horses, but may attack 
a colt two years old. Finally, horses with small chests are most 
liable, and thus the disease proves hereditary. 

" Treatment. — Turning out on natural pastures, feeding cornstalks 
and other laxative food, will relieve, and even cure, mild and recent 
cases. Feeding on dry grain, with carrots, turnips, beets, or pota- 
toes, and a very limited supply of water, will enable many broken- 
winded horses to do a fair amount of work in comfort. Hay should 
never be allowed except at night, and then only a handful clean 
and sweet. 

" The bowels must be kept easy by laxatives, the stables well 
aired, and sedatives (digitalis, opium, belladonna, hyoscynamus, 
stramonium, lobelia) used to relieve the oppression. If a white 
discharge from the nose co-exists, tonics should be given as for 
chronic bronchitis, to which wild cherry bark may be added. Tar 
water as an exclusive drink may be given, and a course of carmina- 
tives (ginger, caraway, cardamous, fennel) may be added with ad- 
vantage. But nerve tonics, and above all arsenic in five-grain doses 
daily, and continued daily for a month or two, are especially valua- 
ble. 

" ISTo broken-winded horse should have food or water for from 
one to two hours before going to work." 

The usual method of treatment adopted by "jockeys," is to feed 
the horse on cut rye straw, to feed very little hay, and to feed 
all aliments dampened. Rye straw is cut as you would cut hay, 
then mixed with bran or middlings, into which a handful of salt 
is added, and dampened with water. This is fed every night. 
Oats and other grain is always dampened. Draught horses 
fed in this way seldom show any sign of heaves. 

Prof. Law regards the following as the best preparation for 
heaves: — 

1 ounce arsenic, — Fowler's solution. 

1 drachm belladonna extract. 

\ drachm tincture of ginger. 

Mix with a pint of water for a drench and give every morning for a 
month or two. 



EOAEING. 859 

A favorite remedy for heaves, used by Prof. Dick, principal of 
Edinburgh College, and undoubtedly of great value, is : — 

Camphor. 

Digitalis. 

Opium. 

Calomel. Of each, 30 grains. 

Make into one powder or ball, and give once a day for a week. If no improve- 
ment is noticeable, omit the calomel, and give for a week or two longer. 

2 ounces Spanish brown. 

2 ounces tartar emetic. 
4 ounces resin. 

3 ounces ginger. 

Mix and give two teaspoonfuls twice a day in the feed. 

y^ ounce vegetable tai', in mass. 
3^ ounce gum camphor. 
] drachm tartar emetic. 

Form into a ball, one of which is to be given once a day. 

1 ounce indigo. 
1 ounce saltpetre. 
1 gallon rain-water. 

Mix and give a pint twice a day in the feed. 

Roaring. 

This is a very annoying difficulty, for which there is no satis- 
factory treatment. Like chronic cough, it often follows an attack 
of laryngitis or of distemper (strangles), and in these cases we 
believe it is owing to a wasting (atrophy) of the muscles of the 
head of the windpipe (larynx), whereby its calibre is diminished, 
and when the air rushes in during violent exertion, a roaring 
sound is produced. The senseless and cruel method of tight- 
checking, in addition to the throat latch being often buckled so 
tightly as to obstruct the breathing, is also a very common excit- 
ing cause. 

SymptoTYis. — When the horse is not excited, and so long as the 
air passes in a uniform rate through the larynx and windpipe, the 
animal does not feel any inconvenience ; whenever he is excited 
or galloped, causing a rush of air, the roaring noise is produced. 
The sound in ordinary circumstances is only produced on inspira- 
tion, but in very severe cases the sound is audible both on inspira- 
tion and expiration. 



860 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

In some horses, roaring is difficult of detection. There are 
several tests which can be resorted to with the view of detecting 
it. * It may often be readily detected by taking the horse firmly 
by the head and striking him suddenly on the side, causing him to 
start forward ; if a grunting noise is emitted, it is always a suspi- 
cious circumstance. But the better test would be to gallop the 
horse sharply for some distance, then pull him up quickly, and by 
applying the ear to the nostrils or t6 the windpipe, any abnormal 
sound will at once be noticed. A good test in the case of draught 
horses is to compel them to draw a heavy load. 

Treatment must be principally palliative ; much can be 
done by generous and regular feeding, and never allowing the 
animal to overload his stomach and bowels. Occasional doses of 
laxative and sedative medicines tend to relieve the more distressing 
symptoms. 

In the early stages, continued applications of tincture of iodine 
is beneficial when applied to the throat. With this the following 
mixture must be used internally : — 

4 ounces powdered prickly ash bark. 
3 ounces powdered belladonna leaves. 
6 ounces powdered licorice root. 

Mix the above with molasses into a soft mass, and give a piece as large 
as a black walnut on the back of the tongue, with a flat stick, twice a day. 
This must be continued for at least one week, after which give the remedy 
once a day for two weeks. 

Have the hay well dusted, and moisten all feed given the 
patient. The above treatment will always cure, or give relief, 
providing the disease is not too far advanced. 

Great relief is sometimes experienced by putting a seton on 
each side of the neck for some time. Sharp blistering may also 
be tried, but is not nearly so effective as setoning. 

The following treatment for the cure of roaring, or whistling, 
as it is termed, has been used by Mr. E. D. Conklin and others in 
Cleveland, Ohio, and they claim the most satisfactory results. Mr. 
Conklin, who is a large owner of horses, and perfectly reliable, 
states that he cured one very bad case ; could not pull a load two 
rods up hill without blowing and choking down : was completely 
cured in six weeks. Has tried it in a number of cases, and always 
with satisfactory results. The treatment was introduced by Dr. 



BEONCHOCELE. 861 

Johnson, of Cleveland, who claims he can cure any case. As there 
is no really satisfactory treatment for this difficulty in regular 
practice that I know of, I give this remedy and state my author- 
ity. It can be tried with safety. 

1 ounce Fowler's solution. 

20 drops sulphuric acid. 
Give the horse in the evening 30 drops of the mixture in about a wine- 
glass of water, on the tongue. Spongia Tosta, first dilution (a homeopathic 
remedy), 10 drops in the morning, to be repeated alternately for from four to 
six weeks, giving more or less, and for a longer or shorter time, according to 
the severity of the case, until a cure is effected. 

Dr. Johnson also found that when the horse is choking with 
severe inflammation of the throat, called distemper, diphtheria, 
etc., that giving successively spongia, aconite, and belladonna, 
after intervals of fifteen minutes, and repeating, is very effective. 
This prescription was given t-he writer by Dr. Johnson. Since 
then Mr. Conklin, in conversation with the writer, stated that in 
relieving heaves he found it of decided value. Filling a sponge 
with the spongia preparation, and squeezing it into the nostrils and 
mouth a few times will give relief. He regarded it very effective 
and valuable for this purpose. 

Bronchocele. 

Bronchocele, or morbid "enlargement of the thyroid gland or 
body." These are two small glands situated one on each side of 
the Avindpipe (trachea), about three inches from the head of the 
windpipe (larynx) ; they are ductless glands, having no excretory 
duct, and they are largely supplied with blood-vessels and nerves. 

Stallions seem to be the most affected by this. It is a tumor 
usually on one side of the windpipe, and the character of the 
swelling varies according to its duration. It may be soft or firm, 
and it may affect the whole gland, or only one side of it ; the tu- 
mor seldom causes pain, and the animal appears not inconvenienced 
by it, although very large. The tumor varies in size from that of 
a hickory nut to as large as a man's hand. It has been regarded 
by some as a cause of roaring, but it is evident that it has nothing 
to do with that difficulty. 

Treatment — Iodine and its compounds seem to have the best 
effect in removing this enlargement. One part of iodine to six or 



862 DISEASES AND THEIR TEEATMENT. 

seven of lard, to be applied daily ; and at the same time administer 
twice a day in solution 1 drachm of iodide of pota.ssium. 

Nasal Gleet 

Is the name applied to a chronic glairy discharge from one or both 
nostrils, of a whitish muco-purulent matter, the result usually of 
neglected catarrh. The general health of the animal does not seem 
to suffer ; he looks well, feeds well, and works well. 

Nasal gleet is not an uncommon disease, and many horses 
have been destroyed, supposed to be affected with glanders, when 
in reality they were only suffering from nasal gleet. It is on this 
account that I have been so explicit in describing glanders. 

Causes. — It is very often the result of catarrh in a chronic 
form, as stated, induced by further exposure to cold, and want of 
a proper supply of nutritive food. It may also occur in cases 
where it cannot be traced to a catarrhal attack of the air passages ; 
and it occurs oftener in aged than in young animals. 

Syrruptoms. — The first noticeable symptom is a yellowish 
discharge from one or both nostrils. The lining membrane of the 
nose (schneiderian) is altered in color ; it becomes of a pale leaden 
hue, but does not exhibit ulcerative patches, as in glanders. The 
discharge may vary both in quantity and quality. It is often 
retained for some time within the sinuses, and comes away in 
considerable quantities. In other cases the discharge is continuous, 
and collects about the nostrils ; the sub-maxillary gland, in cases 
of long standing, becomes tumefied, but not adhering to the bone 
as in glanders ; the frontal and nasal bones are affected, and pre- 
sent an enlargment or bulging out over the seat of the disease. If 
tapped with the point of the finger, a dull, heavy sound is pro- 
duced, showing that matter has collected within the sinus. In 
ordinary cases it is a long time before it materially affects the 
horse in his working capacity. When the bones are greatly dis- 
eased, and the matter collects within the nasal sinuses, it interferes 
with respiration, causing laborious breathing. 

Treatment. — Although a formidable disease, even the worst of 
cases may recover if properly treated. The successful treatment 
in all cases where this disorder has existed, has been on the tonic 
principle. Bleeding and purging are positively injurious. Give 



ISTASAL GLEET. 863 

good food and moderate exercise, sponge the nostrils with tepid 
water, or steam the head, as described for catarrh, once or twice 
a day, and administer mineral or vegetable tonics, as — 

3 ounces sulphate of copper. « 

1 ounce powdered gentian. 

Make into twelve powders, and give one in the food morning and nighc; 
or, the sulphate of iron in two-drachm doses twice a day. 

The nasal cavities may be injected with a weak solution of 
sulphate of zinc or of alum ; or of sulphate of copper, about five 
grains to an ounce of water. When the bone is diseased, and 
matter collected within the sinuses, it is necessary to trephine the 
bone. After operating, inject the sinus with tepid water twice or 
thrice a day, followed by injecting any of the astringents already 
recommended. The opened sinus sometimes fills up with a fungus 
growth, which must either be removed by the knife or by means 
of caustics. 

I include here treatment reported in the Journal of Compar- 
ative Medicine and Surgery for January, 1883, by John Lindsay, 
D. V. S., of Huntington, Long Lsland, which has been so effective 
that I think it worth while to copy his report in full : — 

" July 5th, 1881, I was called to examine a horse at Clay Pits, 
Long Island. This animal was supposed to be suffering from glan- 
ders. As he was a valuable work horse, the owner did not wish to 
destroy him without my advice. 

" The horse was a bad case to look at. He was discharging very 
offensive matter from both nostrils, Avhi'ch had the odor of pus com- 
ing from a necrosed bone. The horse was much reduced in flesh 
and very weak. On examination I found him to be suffering from 
nasal catarrh, and on my stating this to the owner, he wished me 
to try to cure him. The disease was of three years' standing. At 
first I thought of trepanning, but having no instrument, I concluded 
to try injecting the nostrils, knowing from experience that if I could 
reach the necrosed bones with my solution I could make a cure. 

" Mixing up one ounce of Calvert's crystallized carbolic acid No. 2, 
to one pint of water, I injected two ounces into each nostril twice 
daily. After three days of this treatment, there was a marked im- 
provement, which after this was less pronounced, but there was a 
gradual and steady change for the better. At the end of two weeks 
the animal had improved much in general health, and at the end of 
four months was entirely cured, and there has been no return of 
the trouble up to date. 

" July 24th, 1882, 1 was called to see a horse suffering from a very 
offensive discharge from Ms nostrils of one year's duration. At 



S64 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

times there was a marked subsidence of the discharge, followed by 
acute exacerbations. When 1 saw the case, it was in one of the 
acute a,ttacks. Upon examination, I diagnosticated nasal catarrh. 

" I ordered the same treatment as used in the above case, and in 
two mouths a cure was effected, with no recurrence. 

*' August 10th, 1882, 1 was called to see a horse which could not 
breathe easily, and the owner feared the animal was developing 
heaves. The breathing was labored, and there was marked evidence 
of obstruction in the nasal passages. There was not, however, the 
double action of the flanks commonly observed in horses. TJpon 
inquiring, 1 found that two months previous to my visit the horse 
had suffered with a severe discharge from the nostrils, which had 
since ceased. But two weeks after the nasal discharge stopped, he 
had trouble in breathing. 

" 1 came to the conclusion that the horse had been afflicted with 
chronic nasal catarrh, and that the turbinated bones were plugged 
with thick pus. He was placed under the same treatment as the 
other two cases, and in three days began sneezing, and blew from 
his nose two large masses of thick and cheesy pus, followed by a 
return of the discharge. 

"The continued use of the injections, however, terminated in a 
complete cure of the case in one month." 

Influenza — Epizootic — Catarehal Fever, or Pink-Eye. 

This disease has been so common since 1871, and it has caused 
such serious losses, that it may well be regarded with great appre- 
hension by owners. On this account I have been induced to make 
a special effort to obtain the most reliable and practical treatment 
for its successful management. So much depends, in the treat- 
ment of this disease, upon good conditions of care and nursing, 
that is, careful housing, keeping up the strength, etc., which in 
the country must be mainly dependent upon the owner, and it is 
so easy to cause the loss of a case by a little carelessness or bad 
treatment, that it is especially important to give such details as 
will enable a successful treatment of this disease. To accomplish 
this, I not only give the very best explanation of the difficulty 
and treatment directed by one of the most prominent veterinary 
surgeons of the country, but the treatment practiced by Dr. 
Meyer, who informed the writer that he had treated thousands of 
cases without losing a single one, complications excepted ; that of 
true pink-eye he never lost a case, and consequently must be ac- 
cepted as entirely reliable and of great value. 

Influenza, etc., belongs to the class of diseases called epizootic, 
which are distinguished by extending over a large tract of coun- 



INFLUENZA— EPIZOOTIC. 865 

try, and attacking a number of horses at the same time. In its 
nature it resembles an epidemic form of catarrh, but it is essentially 
different, and is easily distinguished from that complaint by its 
epizootic character, and the marked prostration, and low typhoid 
form of fever which always accompanies it. It does not affect 
horses alike in all seasons ; some years it is apt to involve the 
lungs principally, with a marked tendency to dropsical effusion, 
whereas in others the liver and digestive organs are chiefly im- 
plicated. 

Causes. — It is usually supposed to arise from "atmospheric 
causes," — some changes which are said to exist in the atmosphere 
which are not easily explained. It occurs mostly in spring or 
autumn, and is most commonly seen in over-crowded, badly-ven- 
tilated stables, situated in malarial districts. City horses are more 
liable to it than those in the country, and coarser breeds are more 
subject to it than the finer breeds. Poor and over- worked horses 
are especially subject to the fever. 

The disease at times comes on as an epizootic. While it is 
considered decidedly contagious, many veterinarians claim no in- 
fection. Dr. Meyer informed the writer that while the fever was 
at its height, in one stable where the sanitary conditions were ex- 
cellent, and containing one hundred and seventy horses, not an 
animal was taken with the fever; while in badly ventilated stables, 
and under poor conditions, the disease was rampant. 

This is not, however, fully in harmony with the writer's 
experience. In 1871, when the fever was very prevalent in the 
East, to avoid the disease he shipped his horses from Central New 
York to Mansfield, Ohio. The horses were all in perfect health, 
and the conditions of care and stabling were the very best possible ; 
yet when the epizootic reached the town, the first day there were 
reported in different parts of the place fully fifty horses that were 
taken with the disease. The writer's horses, five in number, were 
all taken the same day ; one or two of them but slightly, two of 
them very severely. 

Country people, with the hope of avoiding the disease, would 
hitch their horses about a mile outside the city limits ; but it was 
soon found this made no difference, as horses running in the fields 
seemed to be equally subject to it, though not, as a rule, very 
severely. One farmer who left his horse as stated, far beyond the 

55 



866 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

city limits, when he returned home found three of his horses that 
were running in the pasture, taken with the fever ; but experience 
proved that animals subjected to good conditions and care, had it 
most lightly and made the best recovery. 

Symptoms. — It is early characterized by weakness, a quick, 
weak pulse, hot mouth, shivering, dullness, watery eyes. The 
lining membrane of the nose is reddened, accompanied by a 
watery discharge which soon becomes thick and purulent, accom- 
panied by sore throat and difficulty of swallowing ; the appetite 
is impaired, and the bowels costive. These symptoms, instead of 
abating, as in catarrh, increase, the breathing becomes hurried, 
and there is lifting of the flanks. The low form of fever is char- 
acteristic, as also its occurring in spring or fall, and attacking a 
number of animals in the same way, distinguish it from common 
catarrh. 

In some seasons the lungs are primarily affected, and there is 
great weakness, with a tendency to dropsical efiusion ; water 
accumulates in the chest ; the heart and its coverings are seriously 
involved ; often the eyelids, lips, and whole head are greatly dis- 
tended with fluid. In other cases the liver and bowels seem to 
suffer most, causing great thirst, general uneasiness, costive bowels, 
and light-colored feces, sometimes covered by slimy mucus, [and 
rapid prostration. " When unfavorable termination occurs, the 
dullness increases to stupor, the extremities get colder, the breath- 
ing more difficult and abdominal, the pulse quicker, weaker, and 
more irregular, until death supervenes." 

Pink-Eye. 

Symptoms as given hy Dr. Meyer. — " The symptoms are shown 
in a staggering gait, hanging head, trembling, shivering as from 
cold, loss of appetite ; watery discharge from the eyes, one eye 
closed, especially the left one. The pulse is quickened and weak, 
from 50 to 60 in the minute, and the breathing is hurried, tempera- 
ture 104° to 106°. The bowels are bound and the urine scanty. The 
disease is often complicated with bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, 
etc., etc. A pinkish color of the mucous membrane of the ej^e-lids 
is always present in this disease. There is a discharge from the nos- 
trils, swelling of the limbs, Avhich are tender to the touch. The ani- 
mal is weak, lying down most of the time. The body seems to be 
hot all over. The head hangs low, and in fact seems to be suiferuig 
from pneumonia. The only diflference between pink-eye and pneu- 
monia is, that in the former the pink eye is noticeable, and the 
horse lies down, while in the latter he does not." 



PINK-EYE. . 867 

Treatment. — The general principles laid down for the treat- 
ment of common catarrh, are applicable to the treatment of influ- 
enza ; bleeding, purging, or any method of treatment that would 
tend to diminish the strength, must be avoided, as the debilitating 
tendency is great from the first. He should be placed in a loose- 
box, the body clothed, and the legs bandaged. If noticed while 
the shivering fit lasts, one or two ounces of acetate of ammonia 
may be given with advantage. The bowels should be gently 
opened by a pint of castor oil and one or two drachms of calomel, 
supplemented by injections of soap and water. When the rigor 
has passed off, and the fever runs high, the fever medicine should 
be given in doses of fifteen to thirty drops, every hour and a half? 
or tincture of aconite in doses of about ten or twelve drops, may 
be given. He should be encouraged to drink w^ater holding small 
doses of nitre in solution ; should he not drink it, he may have a 
few mouthfuls of water every hour or two, which of itself is ex- 
cellent for reducing fever. He should have green food when pro- 
curable, or a little boiled oats, and bran mash, or anything else he 
will eat. When the throat is very sore, and the cough troublesome 
rub on the throat a counter-irritant as directed for sore throat, and 
give the following ball night and morning : — 

1 drachm camphor, ; 

1 draehm opium, . - <« 

; 2 drachms nitrate of potash. 

Make into a ball mth linseed meal and molasses. 

Should the lungs or bronchial tubes become involved, indicated 
by the heaving flanks and careful breathing, use counter-irritants 
of mustard or good strong liniment, or hot fomentations to the 
sides until there is relief, as directed for pneumonia. From the 
first, tonic treatment will be found beneficial in counteracting the 
debilitating tendency of the disease. 

When all inflammatory symptoms have disappeared, touics 
will greatly aid the recovery. 

Di-. Meyer's Treatment. — '' Good nursing is indispensable ; should 
be well blanketed, and fed on anything the j^atient chooses to eat ; 
good air, and the stable should be purified by throwing air-slacked 
lime in the stalls, etc.; and from the first, begin by giving the fol- 
lowing remedies every eight hours : — 



868 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

1 ounce carbonate of ammonia, 

2 ounces cinchona bark, powdered, 
j •^- ounce mix vomica, " 

2 drachma digitalis leaves, " 

3 ounces gentian root, " 

Mix and make into eight balls. 

'' Give as much w^ater as the patient chooses to drink, to which 
add some saltpetre. About two ounces a day should be used. The 
above balls should be used after the second day by giving one 
morning and night ; when feeding is resumed, discontinue the rem- 
edies, and continue Avith good nursing. Cure in six to eight days. 
Bathe with hot salt and water." 

It is also necessary to exercise quite slowly at first, as a very 
little over-doing or exposure is liable to bring on a relapse, which 
is almost sure to be fatal. 

Congestion of the Lungs, Pleurisy, Inflammation 
OF the Lungs. 

It is explained in the article on Circulation (page 782), that 
when a horse is exposed to cold, or to conditions which derange 
the circulation, such as changes of temperature, especially after 
severe exertion or exhaustion, standing in a current of cold air, 
etc., by forcing the blood from the surface of the body to the 
internal organs, it will in most cases go to the lungs and surround- 
ing parts, when it would be termed pleurisy, pneumonia, or con- 
gestion of the hmgs, with possible complications with other parts. 

This is so common and fatal in its effect, if neglected or not 
treated properly, that it is very important to have the nature and 
treatment made so simple and plain to owners and stable-keepers 
that, in the absence of competent professional aid, they may easily 
understand and combat it successfully during its insipiency, when 
it can as a general thing be easily managed. 

We will first briefly consider the structures involved in pul- 
monary affections. The windpipe (trachea), after entering the 
chest, divides into the bronchia or bronchial tubes. These divide 
and subdivide into smaller tubes, finally terminating in the air 
. cells. The lungs are made up of clusters of those cells ; of a large 
mass of pulmonary texture called the parenchymatous structure 
or substance of the lungs ; of blood-vessels, both functional and 
for the nutrition of the organ ; of nerves and lymphatics ; and 



COls'GESTlOK OF THE LXTKGS. 



869 



the whole inclosed in a serous membrane called the pleura, which 
is made up of two portions, one portion being reflected over the 
lungs (pleura pulmonalis), while the other lines the inside of the 
ribs and diaphragm (pleura costalis). The lungs are exceedingly- 
light in propoi^tion to their size, and are very vascular organs ; 
consequently they are very liable to diseases of an inflammatory 
character, and the precursor of inflammation is congestion. A 
good idea of the circulation in these parts can be obtained by a 




Fig, 764, — Showing the respiratory organs, 

8. Trachea; 9. Esophagus; 10. Section of left bronchus; 11. Ramifications 
of right bronchus ; 12. Right lung; 13. Left lung seen from above; 14. Sternum: 
16. Heart; 17. Posterior aorta; 18. Anterior aorta. 

study of Figs. 622-627 in Circulation, on pages 733-737, and the 
other cuts included there. 

Bronchitis is inflammation of the lining membrane of the tubes 
of the lungs and lung cells, which is considered in another part of 
this work ; but as it is frequently connected with lung difficulties, 
I refer to it again in this connection. 

Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura, before referred to (or 
serous membrane which covers the lungs and thoracic cavity). 

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lung tissues, or paren- 
chyma of the lungs. If we had bronchial-pneumonia, we would 
have an inflammation of the lining membrane of the tubes and 



870 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEBATMENT. 




Tig. 765. — Trachia and bronchial tubes. 

H, Trachia; I, Ramifications of bronchial 
tubes; L, Chobaic artery. 



the parenchyma of the lungs; 
if we had pleuro-pneumonia, 
we would have an inflamma- 
tion of the pleura, or mem- 
brane, and the parenchyma 
or tissues of the lungs. 

Congestion of the lungs con- 
sists in an increased determi- 
nation of blood to the capilla- 
ries of the air-cells. When 
one or the other (right or left) 
lobe of the lungs is so en- 
gorged with blood forced into 
them, that they are unable 
to either receive or discharge 
blood in proper quantities, 
thereby interfering materially 
with the process of respiration ; 
and consequently, if allowed 
to go too far, it will cause di- 
rect suffocation and death. It 
may exist as an independent 
disease, or accompany other 
affections of the chest. The 
distinguishing symptoms of 
each, with treatment, will be 
piven farther on. In order to 

o 

eimplif y the treatment, I refer 
next to the nature and effect of 
inflammation. 

It is first an increased ac- 
tion ,of the blood-vessels. The 
consequence is an increased 
amount of blood to the part. 
The next change to take place 
is a collapsed condition of the 
walls of the vessels. Now 
there follows an enlargement 
of the blood-vessels ; then the 



CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 



871 



blood passes the walls of the vessels through the tissues outside of 
the vessels. The next change is the breaking down of the cellular 
tissues — normal cells ; next a rapid growth or proliferation of ab- 
normal cells. To go through symptoms : If an external injury, 
for example, there would be, first, pain caused by the pressure 
upon the nei'ves. The heat following would be caused by the 
chemical changes that are going on within the part. The redness 




Fig. 766. — Bronchial tube, with its bronchules, and ultimate 
ramiflcations (natural size). 

is due to the passing of the blood from the vessels into the tissues; 
the swelling is due to the breakinof down of normal cells and the 
rapid formation of abnormal cells. The object in all cases, whether 
internally or externally, is to equalize the circulation a.s quickly 
as possible. 

There are two methods of treatment : If we know the cause? 
as, for example, the animal having stood in a draught of air or 
been exposed to cold, chilling weather, alcoholic stimulants would 
be the best treatment, not only giving alcohol internally, but rub- 
bing it on the legs, and cover the body with warm blankets. Rub 
elbows and hocks to feet, by hand-rubbing or brushes, rubbing 
quickly, and cover with warm flannels. If not successful, or if 



^72 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



inflammation, before explained, sets in, there will now be a rapid 
rise in temperature, when thei-e may be a strong stanic pulse ; in 
that case sedatives would be required. Tincture of aconite has 
stood the test for years. About ten drops Fleming's tincture four 
or five times a day, with from an ounce to an ounce and a half of 
nitrate of potass divided into two powders and given one in the 

morning and one 
at night, or the fe- 
ver m e d i c i n , 
hereafter given, 
can be used. 

In the early 
ijtaffe, external 
means of irrita- 
tion can be freely 
used with good 
results, but are 
not admissible 
when the disease 
has thoroughly set 
in, as they only 
affo-ravate the 
trouble. If the 
pulse is weak, 
stimulants are re- 
quired, such as 
cai'bonate of am- 
monia, 2 'drachms ; camphor, pulverized, 1 drachm ; and nitrate 
of potass (as before). Give in one dose three times a day — the 
potass to be given in water separately. — Walton. (See also arti- 
cle on Pulse.) 

The termination of inflammation will be either in i-esolution — 
that is, a clearing of the lungs, what is known as a gray heppa- 
tized state — or in a breaking down of lung tissue, which may 
develop into an abcess, or tubercles, or gangrene, or death of the 
lung tissues. 

If the horse is young, and strong, and vigorous, not as much 
stimulant should be used as for an old horse. 

If ammonia arises from bedding in stable; it should be neutral- 




FiG. 767. — Air-cells of lung, ATith intervening tissue. 

a, Epithelium; h, elastic trabeculoe-, c, membranous wall 
with fine elastic fibers. 



CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 



873 



ized by sprinkling on a little chloride of lime ; too much of it 
would have an aggravating effect upon the mucous membrane. 

Congestion of the Lungs. 

Synipto'nis. — It is first noticeable by the horse having a severe 
chill or shivering fit. He refuses his food, hangs his head between 
the fore legs or upon the manger, will not move or lie down, 
breathing quick, panting like. The nOvStrils are expanded, the 
head thrown forward ; the countenance expresses pain and great 
prostration. (See cut.") I | les full and quick, 




Fig. 768. — Horse Avith congestion of the lungs. 

but generally quick and weak, scarcely perceptible ; the membrane 
of the nose and eyes bright red, tending to purple ; ears and legs 
are very cold, with a cold, clammy sweat at the extremities. 

When occurring after a hard ride or drive, the horse will 
become tired and sluggish in his action ; he will perspire profusely, 
and almost refuse to proceed, except with the greatest difficulty ; 
he will stand with his elbows turned outward, heaving violently 
at the flanks ; as before explained, the nostrils are dilated, and 
the ears and extremities cold ; the pulse is oppressed, or almost 
imperceptible at the j aw ; the mucous membranes of the nose and 
eyes are reddened. When of a milder nature, as often occurs in 
horses suffering from catarrh which have been subjected to a fast 
drive and exposed to cold draughts, he is seized with a trembling 



874 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 




Fig. 769. — Arrangement of the capillaries 
around the air-cells. 



fit ; the ears are cold, and the respiration hurried, when the ear 
applied to the chest can plainly detect the imperfect breathing. 

The inability of the horse to take sufficient air into the lungs, 
causes great and rapid prostration, and the horse will often, from 
extreme pain, lie down and get up, resembling colic (Somerville) ; 
but the coldness of extremities, prostration, and condition of pulse, 

will, if carefully exam- 
ined, enable an under- 
standing of the real cause. 
A choking noise is some- 
times heard coming from 
the throat. In some cases 
a little blood may be 
thrown from one or both 
nostrils. Extreme pros- 
tration and laborious 
breathing, and bleeding 
from the nostrils, show a 
condition of severe con- 
gestion. 

Causes. — The most common cause is violent exertion when the 
horse is in an unfit state for sevei-e work ; as, for instance, a horse 
in high condition is taken out of his stable and driven rapidly for 
five or six miles ; this induces an increased quantity of blood to 
the lungs, more than they can dispose of in their weakened condi- 
tion from the want of regular exercise. It is also caused by 
impure air, in horses standing in crowded stables, and is often a 
sequel of catarrh. 

Treatment. — In acute cases it must be energetic. Clothe tlie 
body well, and administer stimulants, as — 

2 ounces sulphuric ether, 
1 ounce laudanum. 

To be given in half a pint of cold water ; or nitrous ether may be given 
in place of the sulphuric. 

If no medicinal agents can be conveniently procured, give a 
quart of warm ale, or a tumblerful of gin, whisky, or brandy, 
mixed up with hot water or sugar. Have him put into a warm 
place, with plenty of ventilation, as pure air is an indispensable 
adjunct in the treatment of all pulmonary diseases. If no relief 



PNEUMONIA. 875 

follows, and there is danger of suffocation, take from four to six 
quarts of blood from the neck vein, rub alcohol or other stim- 
ulant on the legs, rubbing well with the hand, and apply hot 
cloths to the sides and loins, and cover up with dry blankets, so 
as to induce a free perspiration, and thereby assist in relieving the 
lungs. 

There is some difference of opinion among practitioners in 
relation to bleeding for congestion. Dr. Summerville, who is a 
very able and successful practitioner, instructed the writer as fol- 
lows : "If there is much congestion, it is necessary to give prompt 
relief, which can be done best by taking four to six quarts of 
blood quickly from the neck vein, stimulate the sides and legs, 
and give fever medicine as for pleurisy." While he condemns 
bleeding for pleurisy or inflammation of the lungs, he says, " In 
a severe attack of congestion, bleeding cannot only be resorted to 
with safety, but, as above stated, is indispensable ; but must not 
be eairried too far, merely to assist the lungs to throw off the load 
of blood forced upon them, and to give the medicine prescribed a 
chance to operate." Prof. Williams also advises the same treat- 
ment. While he condemns bleeding as a general rule, he advises, 
where congestion is so great as to endanger asphyxia, bleeding a 
little (from four to six quarts), promptly. 

Pneumonia — Inflammation of the Lungs, 

As before explained, is inflammation of the substance of the lungs. 
Causes. — It is often a sequel of neglected or improperly treated 
catarrh. It may also, as stated, be accompanied by pleurisy. A 
frequent and we may say the most common cause, is exposing the 
horse while warm to a sudden change of temperature, by allowing 
him to stand in a cold draught of air, etc. ; getting chilled or wet; 
washing tlie belly and legs immediately after exercise and allow- 
ing the horse to get chilled; removing from a warm to a cold or 
from a cold to a warm stable, or cold applied to the surface of a 
heated animal, by which the blood is driven from the skin and 
extremities to the internal organs. Any slight cold or sore throat 
may run into pneumonia. Driving rapidly against a cold wind, 
especially after being confined to the stable for some time, is a 
common cause, and a horse should be watched carefully after such 



876 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



an exposure ; also breathing impure air in overcrowded, badly 
ventilated stables, or standing in an open, draughty stable. 

"Any exposure to cold and wet, sudden chills, housing in very 
cold, draughty stables. Horses kept in ill-ventilated stables are 
undoubtedly rendered susceptible to mauy diseases, and to pneu- 
monia among the rest; but they will bear impure air even better 
than cold draughts blowing directly upon them. I have repeatedly 
observed that the slightest cold contracted by a horse kept in a 
draughty stable has almost invariably been succeeded by pneu- 
monia, and that if the animal was not removed to a more comfort- 
able situation, the disease tended to a fatal termination." — Williams 

Symptoms. — Pneumonia is almost invariably ushered in by 
shivering, and coldness of the surface of the body. The breathing 

becomes hard and full, pant- 
ing like. The pulse is full 
and oppressed, running up to 
from sixty to eighty beats per 
minute, differing in its char- 
acter from the pulse of pleu- 
risy, which is hard and wiry. 
The ears and legs are cold ; 
the membranes of the eyes 
and nose are reddened ; the 
animal stands persistently 
with his elbows turned out, 
to give more freedom to the lungs. He stands with his nose to- 
ward the window or door, where he can get fresh air. 

A healthy horse breathes at an average of ten times in a min- 
ute, viz., ten inspirations and ten expirations ; and the time occu- 
pied by the inspiratory movement is longer than the expiratory. 
In pneumonia the expiration is as long, if not longer, than the in- 
spiration, and these movements are very much quickened, being 
an effort of nature to compensate for the impaired action of the 
lungs. When a cough is present, it is freer and less painful than 
the cough of pleurisy. By applying the ear to the sides of the 
chest, in the early stage a crepitating sound is heard, which 
becomes altered as the disease progresses ; but in a general sense it 
is easily distinguished by the horse standing with the legs spread, 
the head thrown forward, breathing quick and hard, and ears and 
legs cold. 




Fig. 770. — As the horse usually stands 

when suffering frota inflammation 

of the lungs. — From Muyhew. 



PNEUMONIA. 



877 



Treatment. — Blanket warmly and put in a comfortable stall 
where there will be pure air, and give the following fever medi- 
cine : — 

1 ounce tincture of aconite, 

2 drachms tincture of belladonna, 

3 ounces water. 

Of this give from 15 to 30 drops on the tongue every 20 or 30 minutes, 
or about 10 drops tincture of aconite every two hours, more or less, accord- 
ing to the severity of the case. If the case is severe, apply strong stimu- 
lants to the legs, breast, and sides of the chest, as before explained, such 
as mustard made into a paste and rubbed in thoroughly, or a liniment com- 
posed of aqua ammonia reduced one-half with water, and rubbed in well so 
as to invite circulation to surface and extremities. 

Blankets wrung out of hot water applied to the sides in the 
early stage (for details see 
Fomentations), is preferred 
by many. If this is done at 
the time the fever sets in, 
either in pneumonia or pleu- 
risy (the treatment for which 
is practically the same), with 
a few doses of the fever medi- 
cine, it is rarely the horse will 
not be relieved next day ; but 
if not, recovery will not com- 
monly take place before the fifth or sixth day. Give from 2 to 3 
drachms nitrate of potass two or three times a day. When there 
is improvement, which will be denoted by the pulse becoming full 
and regular and the expression and actions being lively, give less 
fever medicine and at longer intervals. Should too much be 
given, it will be noticed by falliug of the pulse, sweating, trem- 
bling, and anxious eye, when it should be discontinued, and stim- 
ulants would be indicated. 

Nurse by giving simple food, such as a little bran with boiled 
oats, linseed meal, cooked carrots, with a little good hay. If there 
is much weakness, give moderate doses of whisky or brandy, 
from 4 to 6 ounces two or three times a day, being governed by its 
efiects. If the bowels are bound, move them by enemas, Ke- 
covery will be greatly aided by the use of stimulants and tonics j 




Fig 771. — Horse ia last stages of iaflam- 
mation of the lungs. — MayJiew. 




878 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATME:NT. 

liquor acetate of ammonia in 2 ounce doses three or four times a 
day, may be used. 

The best veterinary surgeons now all agree that bleeding is 
not only unnecessary but injurious in treating pneumonia and 
pleurisy. 

Pleurisy. 

As before stated, pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura. 

Symptoms. — It may be sudden or gradual in its attack, the 

horse showing indispo- 
sition, sometimes for 
days previous. He will 
be dull and heavy in ac- 
tion for a day or two, 
unwilling to lie down, 
pulse not much dis- 
turbed, or there is a chill, 
'"-^'^^■^sssi^^K^J^ "^^^^"^^^-^[^ or shivering fit, which 

Fig. 773.— Usual appearance of a horse suffering Jasts from one to three 

from pleurisy. — From Mayhew. ■, \. s a. 

^ •' " hours, when lever sets 

in ; breathing at flanks a little accelerated, countenance is anxious, 
the head is sometimes turned toward the side, does not lie down. 
As the disease advances, the symptoms become more marked. 
The ears and legs become cold ; the pulse, from being a little 
accelerated, grows quicker, hard, and full ; the head is hung for- 
ward ; stands up persistently ; breathing hurried ; the membrane 
of the nose and eyes red. 

Turning the horse round, or hitting against the chest, back of 
the shoulder, will cause a kind of grunt. 

The ear applied to the chest will detect a rough, rasping noise, 
and there is generally present a short, painful, suppressed cough, 
easily excited by pressure on the larynx. 

Causes. — Are similar to those of pneumonia, such as variations 
in temperature, exposure to cold while warm, standing in draught 
of cold air, impure air, etc. Pleurisy occurs as an independent 
disease, or, as before stated, may be accompanied by inflammation 
of the lungs. If neglected or not treated properly, is a very dan- 
gerous disease. 



PLBUEISY. 



879 



Treatment is practically the 
in a cool, well- ventilated stall ; 
the body, neck, and legs warmly ; 
if at all serious, using stimulants 
on the extremities, and hand- 
rubbing thoroughly, with hot fo- 
mentations to the sides ; the gen- 
eral treatment, in a word, is the 
same as for pneumonia. Should 
there be cough, or soreness of 
the throat, it is to be treated in 
connection, as directed for lar- 
yngitis. 

I wish now to call attention to 



same as for pneumonia. Put 
give fever medicine ; blanket 




what must not be done. 



Fig. 773. — The pleura as it appears when 
inflamed, magnified. 




Fig. 774. — Section of pleura 

showing blood-vessels 
greatly injected with blood. 



First, 

give no physic nor oil for any form of 
inflammation of the lungs. Cathartic 
medicine is poisonous, such as aloes, oils, 
or tartar emetic. There is so much nau- 
sea during the operation of these medi- 
cines, and debility from their effect, 
that they do harm. There is such great 
sympathy between the bowels and the 
lungs, that they hasten the cause of in- 
flammation of the lungs, often caus- 
ing death within a few hours after ad- 
ministering them. Next, do not bleed 
for pleurisy, as so doing will 
cause debility of the capil- 
laries of the part, which 
would induce hydrothorax, 
or dropsy of the chest. 

This will be somewhat 
puzzling to owners and sta- 
ble-keepers, and especially 
to those who may be guided 
by Youatt and other good 
old authorities who invaria- 
bly advised this treatment. 
The better to aid my 




Fig. 775. — Showing adhesive inflammation 
of the pleura. 

readers, I include also the directions 



880 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

given by Prof. W. W. Williams, president of the new Veterinary 
College of Edinburgh, Scotland, who is now recognized as being at 
the very head of the veterinary profession, and the most reliable 
authority : — 

" 1. Place the animal in a well-ventilated loose-box, but where 
the air is not too cold. 

" 2. Clothe and wrap the body, extremities, and head in suitable 
but not too heavy cloths. 

" 3. Give it as much water as it will drink, adding to the water, 
if there is much fever, about an ounce of nitre, or 20 to 30 drops of 
tincture of aconite, to the bucket full. 

''4. If the bowels are bound, loosen them by injections of oil or 
warm Avater. 

"5. If there is much weakness, give two drachms each of car- 
bonate of ammonia and camphor, in the form of a bull, twice daily. 

" 6. Let the food be simple, laxative, cooling, and nutritious, as 
bran, boiled linseed meal, good hay, or cooked carrots or turnips. 

" 7. If moderate diarrhea or profuse staleing come on, they are 
on no account to be checked, as this is an effort of nature to throw 
off the disease. 

" 8. If there is great exhaustion, moderate doses of whisky may 
be given, but there is no use of pushing them, unless their good 
effects are soon seen." 

The attention of the writer has been particularly •directed to 
the value of the fever medicine before recommended in the treat- 
ment of pleurisy and pneumonia. During the year of his stay in 
Buffalo with Dr. Somerville, it was invariably used for all cases 
of chills and fever with remarkable success. Indeed, the writer 
does not remember a single fatal case, even of those that had been 
caused by exposure, or from badly-ventilated stables, or of an 
epizootic character, when treated within a reasonable length of 
time. The usual course was blanketing the horse comfortably 
warm and giving this medicine, in about the proportion and at 
intervals stated ; the size and the condition of the case determining 
how much to give. A great many times while on the road the 
writer has had occasion to use this medicine for chills and fever, 
and always with success. Indeed, if this is given promptly, with 
anything like ordinary care, aided by other means as directed, 
there need be but little danger of failure. The point is, as repeat- 
edly stated, to take the case in hand promptly at the start ; watch 
closely the condition of the animal that has been exhausted, or 
hard-driven, and exposed to cold, especially during chilly, rainy 
weather, and if any iudication of chill is noticeable, give a little of 



TEEATMENT FOE PNEUMOISriA. 881 

the fever medicine once or twice, and blanket warmly, and it is 
rarely any serious trouble will follow. 

The medicine is put up by Dr. Somerville, as a specialty, for 
the use of stable-keepers, and is regarded of great value. The 
real point of its value, I believe, is in its dilution. Simple tincture 
of aconite reduced, so far as the writer is able to understand, hav- 
ing all the beneficial effects claimed for the combination with bel- 
ladonna or veratrum. Dr. Somerville is a thoroughly educated 
practitioner of the old school, of great experience, and his success 
in the treatment of chest difficulties (pneumonia) has been remark- 
able ; and he has depended mainly upon this preparation, anti- 
fever medicine, for his success. The method of his putting it up 
now may be somewhat different from the formula given ; but it 
will be found ia every essential all that is required, by giving in 
addition, in cases of intermittent chills, quinine or other tonic 
medicine. 

The writer would in all cases, if available, prefer using that 
prepared by Dr. Somerville,* as he is very careful to have the qual- 
ity of the medicine reliable. It is put up in convenient form, 
and the extra expense is. merely nominal, and he would advise his 
friends to obtain it of him or his agents, when available. 

Dr. Chas. a. Myer's Treatment. 

In conversation with Dr. Myer on the treatment of pneumonia 
and pleurisy, he stated that he treated them with decided success 
without using aconite, which is recognized as the best sedative for 
fever. I requested the details of his method of treatment, which 
I here include as an important addition to what I have already 
given on the subject : — 

Have the animal well blanketed and cared ""^or in a roomy 
stall, where there is plenty of circulating air, and give one of the 
following balls every eight hours : — 

1 ounce carbonate of ammonia, 
2h ounces pulv. chincona bark, 
5 ounce pulv. nux vomica, 

3 drachms pulv. digitalis leaves, 

2 ounces pulv. gentian. 

Make into eight balls. 



* Dr. Wm. Somervme, 137 Erie street, Buffalo, N. Y. 

56 



882 DISEASES AND THEIR TEEATMENT. 

Also give the following in water twice a day : — 

6 ounces nitrate of potash. 
1 ounce bicarbonate of soda. 
Make into six powders. 

Have the animal's chest rubbed with alcohol two or three 
times a day for the first two days. Feed nutritious food, or any- 
thing that may tempt the animal to eat. The medicine must be 
continued until the animal commences to lie down, which will be 
from the sixth to the eighth day. 

Pleurisy. 

Symptoms rather obscure. Animal dull, dejected, oft' his food, 
sweats easily, pulsation from 60 to 80, small and weak, tempera- 
ture 102j° to 104°; above this is sure death. Sometimes there is a 
cough from commencement, but often or in about half the cases 
there is no cough. During the first three or four days the extrem- 
ities and ears are alternately hot and cold, appetite almost wholly 
lost. The fecal and urinary secretions are considerably lessened. 
The membrane of nose and eyes are injected. Tongue is generally 
foul, belly tucked up, does not lie down. The thoracic walls are 
fixed, breathing almost wholly abdominal, and elbows turned. If 
made to move suddenly, especially turning short around, there is 
a groan or growl. Breathing quick or catching-like and short. 
Often the right side only is aftected. 

Treatment. — Hot applications to the chest. This can be done 
best by wringing blankets out of hot water and applying them to 
the chest, — two or three blankets, one over another, and all cov- 
ered with oil cloth or other blankets so as to keep in the heat. 
Rub limbs with alcohol ; they may also be loosely bandaged. One 
of the following balls should be given every eight hours : — 

■| ounce powdered opium. 

IJ ounces muriate ammonia. 

3 ounces powdered chincona bark. 

Mix, and make into six balls. 

Give the animal anything he will eat or drink. If the horse 
is taken during the early stages, this will cut it short in from 48 
to 60 hours. 

If in an after stage swelling begins to show itself below the 
chest walls, that is, between the fore legs, and extending back- 
ward, shows the least symptom of the trouble known as Hydro- 
thorax, give the following remedy : Fluid extract digitalis, from 
twenty to twenty-five drops, more or less according to the size of 
the horse, every four hours, and continue until the swelling begins 
to lessen, then the intervals of giving the drops should be length- 



HYDEOTHOEAX. 883 

ened to eight hours. If the swelling is very large, the skin should 
be punctured in from twenty to thirty places, and the parts 
bathed with hot water three to four times a day. 

Hydrothoeax, or Water in the Chest. 

This is a sequel of pleurisy when neglected or not treated 
properly, and which can scarcely be said to be curable. When 
pleurisy is running into this difl&culty, there may be some appear- 
ance of recovery ; the breathing and fever are not so intense ; the 
horse will perhaps eat a little ; the skin looks sleek and glossy ; 
these signs of improvement may continue for several days, but if 
the pulse is gradually increasing in frequency, and its strength 
diminishing, there is undoubtedly water forming in the chest. 

When this has taken place to any great extent, there is diffi- 
culty in breathing, and a flapping of the nostrils ; the eyes are 
clear and unnaturally prominent ; the intercostal spaces bulge 
out, and the ear applied to the chest can only detect the respira- 
tory murmur above the surface of the fluid ; the legs and breast 
will swell ; the circulation becomes more and more impaired, the 
pulse getting weak and indistinct. 

Prof. Williams states, in relation to the cause of hydrothorax : 
" Of the termination of pleuro-pneumonia in hydrothorax, I have 
only to say that since I have abandoned the heroic or counter- 
irritating treatment [he advises hot fomentations to the chest ; 
discards all blisters and irritants], hydrothorax has been almost 
unknown to me. For this the principle of treatment is stimulants, 
tonics, and diuretics." I give the treatment of a leading author- 
ity, who advises as follows : — 

" Give a pint of warm ale combined with one ounce of nitrous 
ether three times a day ; blisters applied to the sides, and iodide of 
potassium in 1 drachm doses twice a day ; feed the animal on 
nutritious and easily digested food. 

"When a large accumulation of fluid takes place, it must be re- 
moved by tapping. The puncture is usually made in the intercostal 
space between the seventh and eleventh ribs, near their junction 
with the cartilages. The space between the eighth and ninth is 
usually recommended. An incision is first made with a lance 
through the skin, the trochar and canula is carefully pushed through 
the muscles and pleura, directed slightly upward and backward, 
keeping it close to the anterior border of the ninth rib, so as to 
avoid wounding the intercostal artery ; when the trochar is with- 



884 DISEASES AKD THEIE TEEATMENT. 

drawn, the fluid flows freely through the tube ; sometimes it gets 
obstructed by coagula of lymph, which should be cleared by insert- 
ing a small whalebone staff. Care must be taken not to allow air 
to enter the cavity, as death has often occurred from this cause 
during the operation. It is advised before making the incision to 
draw the skin aside so as to form a valvular wound, at the same 
time taking care to prevent the entrance of any air. The operation 
may be repeated in a day or two on the other side ; but in most 
cases the relief is but temporary. In any event tonic treatment, 
such as sulphate of iron, tincture of gentian, stimulants and diuretics, 
iodide of potassium, are to be depended upon if successful." 

Hydrothorax was a very common result of pleurisy, when 
treated by bleeding, blistering, etc. The congestion or inflamma- 
tion in the first place is due to debility, and bleeding only increases 
it ; and especially when the bleeding is repeated, though for a 
time there was apparent relief, fever and increased debility fol- 
lowed, resulting usually unfavorably. 

The treatment advised for pleurisy, if the case is attended to 
promptly, even though very severe, will he found so effective as 
to leave but little probability of any serious efiusion taking place. 

Typhoid Pneumonia. 

Cause is mainly attributed to those influences which inter- 
fere with the general health and vigor of the animal, among 
which stand pre-eminently overcrowding, improper ventilation, 
confinement in damp, filthy stables, drinking bad water, holding 
in solution decomposing organic matters, insufficient nourishment^ 
and undue exposure, together with what may be termed, generally, 
atmospheric causes. 

Symptoms. — ^The horse is ofl" his feed, disinclination to move, 
appetite gone, pulse weak and low ; will sometimes eat a little, 
will not lie down, stands hanging his head, is listless and stupid, 
not much cough, rarely any discoloration of the membrane of the 
nose or eyes ; urine scanty and high colored ; feces hard and 
coated. After two or three days the membrane of the nose and 
eyes is a little discolored or red, pulse quicker, 65 or 70, breathes 
quicker. About the fourth or fifth day there is usually a discharge 
from the nostrils, of a blackish brandy colored cerum. 

Treatment. — As the word typhoid means low, it is necessary 
to watch it carefully in that stage, which will last as described in 



BEONCHITIS. 885 

the symptoms, the first four or five days, when in many cases the 
pulse may run down to thirty. Stimulants should be used at this 
stage, such as a little brandy and water or whisky and water. A 
gill or two of liquor to be given as a drench, or what is much bet- 
ter, is, take carbonate of ammonia, from one to two drachms ; 
powdered ginger root, one to two drachms, made into a ball with 
honey or molasses, and given twice a day. It should be remem- 
bered that this treatment alone is intended only for the low stage 
of the disease. When the pulse seems to rise to fifty or sixty about 
the fifth or sixth day, the patient should then be treated as for 
pleurisy, with fever medicine. Under the influence of the latter 
treatment, the pulse wiU recede and resume its natural number of 
beats (forty). In this form of disease the horse is extremely pros- 
trated at first, the whole system being inactive. The pulse may 
run up in time to seventy, or even eighty. 

The horse should be kept moderately warm, clothing thoroughly 
the head, neck, and extremities ; he should have a comfortable, 
well-ventilated stall ; open the bowels by enemas ; give tepid 
water to drink in which is a little nitrate of potash, as advised for 
pneumonia. Nurse the horse with anything he will eat, — a hand- 
ful of wet hay, a carrot or two, an apple or a potato, or anything 
of an alterative nature. 

Be careful not to exercise too soon. 

Beonchitis. 

Bronchitis, or inflammation of the mucous membrane of the 
bronchial tubes, is often associated with inflammation of the lungs, 
but also occurs as a separate aflection. 

Causes are similar to other pulmonary diseases. It is a result 
of laryngitis, or catarrh; or it may depend on atmospheric influ- 
ences, and in these cases it is always accompanied with great weak- 
ness and prostration. 

Symptoms. — There is a short, dry, and husky cough, speedily 
becoming more prolonged. When a horse gives a natural cough, 
he opens his mouth a little; but when laboring under this disease, 
he keeps his mouth closed, trying to suppress the cough. As the 
disease advances, the mouth becomes hot and dry, the ears and 
extremities alternately hot and cold, the pulse not hard and wiry 



886 DISEASES AND THBIE TEEATMENT. 

as in pleurisy, but soft and compressible, and the respirations are 
quick and hollow. If the ear be applied to the breast, a rattling 
sound can easily be detected; the bowels are inactive, and the ap- 
petite is gone. Death may occur in from three to five days. 

Treatment the same as for laryngitis, explained on page 845 ; 
counter -irritation to the throat, and if there is fever, give fever 
medicine or aconite, as for pneumonia. If the cough is very dis- 
tressing, give the following every night and morning: — 

1 drachm extract of belladonna. 

2 scruples powdered digitalis. 
1 drachm camphor. 

1 scruple powdered opiiun. 

Colic. 

Colic is so common as well as dangerous a difficulty, often 
proving fatal in a few hours, that it is of the greatest importance 
to know what to do, and to be able to do it promptly when it oc- 
curs; since, if treated properly, it is rare that it cannot be re- 
lieved without difficulty; whereas, if neglected, or not treated 
properly, as stated, it frequently results in the death of a valuable 
horse. 

There is no disease about which there seems to be so much 
difference of opinion among horse-men. When the horse is taken 
sick suddenly, showing the symptoms of colic, the owner, or some 
neighbor called in who is presumed to know, assumes at once it is 
caused by bots; another supposes it is belly-ache; while a num- 
ber of others who may be present, are equally positive in stating 
what they believe to be the cause of the trouble. The treatment, too, 
is on the same principle, equally doubtful, if not ridiculous. The 
first and most common remedy is plunging a knife into the roof 
of the horse's mouth to bleed, so as to give blood to the bots, or 
relieve the colic, or "whatever it is"; this hap-hazard cutting is lia- 
ble to sever the pallet artery, and endanger the horse's bleeding to 
death. I have several times, when traveling, been called to treat 
cases so gashed in the mouth that they would have bled to death 
if not stopped promptly. (See Bleeding further on.) The next 
resource is, running the horse up and down the street, or kicking 
him in the belly, giving sweet milk and molasses, including a 
variety of other remedies advised by friends. No one would pre- 



B" t 



^. p ^ 

to c*- bH 

» 1=' p 

•« 2 2. 

^ a 



h s 



3. CR 






2 1J 



O •< )-( 



3^' 



cr g 



t-» GO 






t-* 2- 




888 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

tend to be able to explain definitely the nature of the trouble; but 
they believed it was this, that, or something else, and the conse- 
quence was that the poor horse was liable to be tortured for hours, 
often killed, by cruelty or repeated dosing with remedies that were 
not applicable to the case. While it is true a horse may show the 
symptoms of colic, from a variety of causes, which would mislead 
the judgment of even good practitioners, it is so exceptional as to 
be scarcely worth referring to here. 

It was stated in another part, by the writer, that he employed 
a veterinary surgeon of unusual skill and experience, to instruct 
him in his method of treatment for the cure of such diseases as 
are most common and dangerous to horses in this country, includ- 
ing the prescriptions used by him for the same. 

The first morning, while waiting in the office for the com- 
mencement of this instruction, the doctor came in hurriedly, say- 
ing, "There is a horse here that has colic; I wish you to observe 
his condition carefully; notice what will be done for him; in the 
meantime read every authority in the library on the causes and 
symptoms of colic, but do not read the treatment, as the treatment 
given in books is not reliable, and would only mislead you." 

As directed, I noticed carefully the condition of the case and 
the effect of the treatment, which was favorable. In the mean- 
time I read up on the subject, and that evening I was given a 
lecture on colic, when the doctor informed the writer that he had 
killed hundreds of horses before he knew how to treat it success- 
fully; and that the treatment given in books, and generally ad- 
vised, could not be depended upon to cure colic with anything like 
certainty; that even veterinary surgeons of very high stand- 
ing could not feel any certainty of being able to cure colic ; that 
it was found especially difficult to cure flatulent colic, or tympan- 
ites. "Now," said he, "we can cure every case that comes into 
this stable, if we can have an opportunity of treating them within 
a reasonable length of time, or before there is a colapsed condition 
of the circulation." 

The opportunities for treating colic in tho Infirmary wei'e very 
many. The Erie Canal heads at that place, which necessai'ily con- 
centrated a large number of canal horses in the vicinity, which, 
with those of the city, brought to the Infirmary almost every day 
a number of horses suffering with colic ; and during my experi- 



COLIC. 



88d 



ence there of a year, there was not a single death from this cause ; 
and siace then, extending over a period of twelve years, I have 
used the same treatment in the cure of a great many cases, and 
had it used under my supervision, without the loss of a single 
case; this treatment I give first, having the utmost confidence in 
its great value. 

There are two forms of this disease, namely, spasmodic and 
flatulent colic. The first is wholly of a spasmodic nature, and if 
not promptly relieved, will, in severe cases, run into inflammation 
of the bowels, causing speedy death. The second, while exhibit- 
ing the same general symptoms, 
shows marked enlargement of 
the belly, from generation of gas, 
which, if not checked and neu- 
tralized, results fatally by rupt- 
uring the diaphragm, causing 
suffocation and death. The ad- 
vantage of this treatment for 
colic was first, in making a fair 
trial of the best anti-spasmodic, 
laudanum; then, if it failed to 
give relief, or if there was re- 
lapse, bleeding promptly, which 
not only gave relief with more certainty, but prevented a tendenc}^ 
to inflammation, thereby making a cure when medicine proved 
unavailing. Secondly, in giving peppermint for flatulent colic. 
He found by experimenting that peppermint was the only remedy 
he could depend upon for neutralizing the distending gas; and its 
combination with ether, as the best for giving rehef . 

Canses. — The common causes of colic are a sudden change in 
the feed ; very often during the summer when running at pasture 
if taken up for a day, and a feed of oats or dry food given, it is apt 
to cause gripes; feeding new oats or new corn is a common cause; 
applications of cold water to the body; drinking freely of cold 
water when heated, especially if hard well-water, often gives rise 
to a severe attack; worms and other intestinal irritants may in- 
duce it; costiveness and unwholesome food often cause it; over- 
loading the stomach, or being put to work on a full stomach, will 
give rise to it. 




Tig. 777. — ITirst stage of Spasmodic Colic 
somewhat exaggerated. — Mayheio. 



890 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 




COLIC. 



891 



Symptoms. — The animal is suddenly seized with pain in the 
bowels, becoming restless and uneasy, crouching, sometimes strik- 
ing up towards the belly with the hind foot, looking round to his 
flanks, evincing great distress; he gets down after several appar- 
ent efforts, rolls about, sometimes on his back, sometimes quite 
over.* (These symptoms I try to illustrate by Figs. 780 and 781, 
which of course are ideal, but will serve to give a good idea of the 
main symptoms. Fig. 777, which I copy from Mayhew, is con- 




FiG. 779. — First stage of Spasmodic Colic. 

siderably exaggerated, head being held too high, showing too ex- 
cited and nervous an expression, and the hind leg brought too 
near the body. Fig. 779 shows a common symptom of the early 
stage, drawn under my own supervision, and is more natural.) 
Profuse perspiration breaks out over him. The paroxysm soon 

* He may also act as If he wanted to make water, which he cannot do, there be- 
ing a spasmodic contraction of the urethra. Hence the desire to give diuretic 
medicine. Straining in this way is usually prompted by a desire to relieve the mus- 
cles of the belly. No diuretic medicine should be given, as the horse cannot pass 
"urine until the attack of colic ceases, or it is taken from him with a catheter. It is 
very seldom necessary to use a catheter. In fact, it is not necessary to pay any at- 
tention to this symptom. As soon as relieved of the colic, the horse will pass water 
freely. 



m2 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



passes off, and he gets up, shakes himself, and begins feeding ; dur- 
ing the interval the pulse is unaltered ; the legs and ears are natural 
in temperaiture. After an interval of longer or shorter duration, 




-Second stage of Spasmodic Colic, 
the attack returns, pernaps with increased violence, when he gathers 



himself, falls down and rolls about as before, 
vances, the symptoms become more severe. 



As the disease ad- 




FiG. 781. — Third stage of Spasmodic Colic. 

Youatt, in his description of colic, contrasts its symptoms with 
those of inflammation of the bowels, and though not exactly ac- 
cording to modern authorities, it will materially aid the reader in 
determining the difference; so I include it. I would also refer the 



COLIC. 893 

reader to the description of each by Dr. Meyer, which follows on 
page 895. 

COLIC. INFLAMMATION. 

Sudden in its attack. Gradual in its approach, with 

previous indications of fever. 

Pulse rarely much quickened Pulse very much quickened, 

in the early stage of the disease but small, and often scarcely to 

and during the intervals of ease, be felt. 
but evidently fuller. 

Legs and ears of natui'al tern- Legs and ears cold, 
perature. 

Eelief obtained from rubbing Belly exceedingly tender, and 

the belly. painful to the touch. 

Eelief obtained from motion. Motion evidently increasing 

the pain. 

Intervals of rest. Constant pain. 

Strength scarcely affected. Eapid and great weakness. 

If not checked, or there is not relief, it runs into iaflammation 
of the bowels, which is very fatal, and the point is to combat and 
overcome it before running so far as to resist treatment. 

This disease being wholly of a spasmodic character, it must 
be counteracted by anti-spasmodic treatment; and laudanum be- 
ing the most powerful and reliable anti-spasmodic, it is indicated. 

Treatment. — Give from two to three ounces of laudanum and 
a pint of raw linseed oil.* If not better in an hour, give two 
ounces of laudanum and the same quantity of oil. If there is not 
relief in a reasonable time after the second dose is given, take 
from six to twelve quarts of blood from the neck vein, according 
to the size of the horse and the severity of the attack. -(- Always in 
bleeding make the orifice large, and extract the blood as quickly 
as possible. 

In the Infirmary the practice was, as stated, to try the medi- 
cine, and as soon as convinced it was not sufficient to relieve the 
case, no time was lost in bleeding. Or, if a case was brought in 
that had been sufiering some time, not only medicine was given, 
but bleeding was resorted to at once. 

* This is the dose advised for a large horse. For a medium or small sized, 
nervous tempered animal, two-thirds the quantity would be equally large. 

t It will be rarely found necessary to resort to bleeding if the case is attended 
to promptly, and in only very serious cases, where the horse is fat and large, is so 
large a quantity of blpo^ to be taken. In ordinary cases, six to eight quarts would 
be sufficient. 



894 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMBNT. 



Tympanites, or Flatulent Colic, 

Symptoms the same as in spasmodic colic, with the difference 

of there being so great an accu- 
mulation of gas in the stomach 
and intestines that the belly is 
swelled. This disease will often 
prove fatal in from one to three 
hours. It is generally very 
sudden in its attack, often oc- 
curring while the animal is at 
work, particularly during warm 

or changeable weather; but it is generally caused by indigestion, 

producing gases in the bowels or stomach.* 




Fig. 782.— Early stage of Flatulent Colic. 




Fig. 783. — An advanced stage of Flatulent Colic, or Tympanites. 

* There are two locations for this disease, the stomach and the colon and coecum; 
but in either it requires the same treatment, as it is generally produced by the 
same causes. When in the stomach, it will be distinguished by eructations, or 
belchings of gas through the esophagus, or gullet. If in the colon or ccecum, the 
horse is violently swollen along the belly, flanks, and sides. The pulse is rarely 
disturbed until the disease advances, when it will become quickened, running to its 
height quickly, and receding as rapidly, if fatal. If to terminate fatally, it will be- 
come weaker and slower until it is almost imperceptible. If the animal is allowed 
to fall down suddenly, while the pressure of gas upon the walls of the stomach is 
very great, there is liability of rupturing the diaphragm, which Avould cause almost 
instant death from suffocation. 



TYMPANITES, OE FLATULENT COLIC. 895 

Treatment. — Blanket comfortably, so as to keep up evapora- 
tion, and immediately give the following as a drench: — 

2 ounces peppermint. 
2 ounces sulphuric ether. 
1 pint water. 

Shake up thoroughly, and keep covered with the hand or cork before ad- 
ministering. If not relieved, it should be repeated in one-half to three-quar- 
ters of an hour. If the horse is small, and the attack not severe, less may 
be given ; while if very large, and the attack severe, even more may be 
given. * 

During my practice of late years, when I had a case of colic, 
I usually gave the following preparation: — 

1\ to 2 ounces peppermint. 
1^ to 2 ounces sulphuric ether. 
1 ounce laudanum. 
1 pint soft water. 

After shaking thoroughly, I gave this immediately. I have 
found it in all cases to give relief. It is particularly valuable to 
non-professional men who cannot, during the early stage, tell the 
difterence between spasmodic and flatulent colic, and on this ac- 
count it is the preparation the writer would advise. Stable-keep- 
ers should always keep it on hand, in readiness for an emergency, 
as it is very important to be able to treat this disease promptly. 

If the horse is subject to attacks of colic, which are usually pro- 
duced by irritating matter in the bowels, it can usually be relieved 
by giving one or two sharp doses of physic. 

Dr. Myer's method of treatment is so good, explaining as it 
does some symptoms, with other points of treatment not given? 
that I include it in full : — ■ 

" First, there is a switching of the tail, followed by a pawing 
with the fore feet, and acting as if there were an inclination to lie 
down. Usually gets down and rolls, looks at the belly, rolls, then 
up again, and seems at rest for a few minutes, when he goes through 
the same actions again. The pulsation is full and strong, about 
natural. By looking at the inner surface of the eyelid there will 
be some sign of inflammation. When the attack is running into 

* The ether disturbs the breathing, making the horse apparently distressed, 
breathing laboriously, which will pass off in a few hours. 



896 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMEJSIT. 

inflammation of the bowels, or becomes seated, there will be an in- 
clination to sweat, an anxious expression in the eye, increased res- 
piration, the pulsation from 70 to 80, small and weak. The inner 
lining of the eyelid will be plainly injected or reddened, the animal 
at times looking toward the flanks; walks almost in a circle; makes 
attempts to lie down, coming down about half way, gets up and 
walks around again, which may be repeated a number of times ; 
finally succeeds in getting down, which he does very carefully, then 
will lie outstretched for a few moments ; will make an attempt to 
rise, and will sit up like a pig, as shown in Fig. 787, page 900. 

"In colic, the horse throws himselfdown carelessly, rolls around 
in a careless manner, and then jumps up, — an important sign of 
death. After the case has been treated for some time, he may seem 
easier ; but if allowed to have his own way, and he wanders off to 
some unusual place, it is positive proof that he is beyond medical 
aid. 

' ' Treatment for colic. — 2 ounces laudanum, ^ ounce sj)irits of camphor 
or 1 drachm gum camphor, 2 ounces sweet spuits of nitre, 2 drachms fliiid 
ex. belladonna. Mix with one-half pint of water, and give as a drench. If 
the patient is no better in one hour, repeat, and, if constipated, use warm 
water injections. 



Fig. 784. — Trocar and canula. 

" Flatulent colic, treatment the same as above. In the early 
stage, if after about half an hour the patient seems no better, give 
two ounces of essential hartshorn in water, with warm water ene- 
mas. If by this time there is no flatus, or breaking of wind, and 
the animal's abdomen or belly is very much distended, and is belch- 
ing up air out of the nostrils, and commences to tremble in his legs, 
an operation will have to be performed. Take a lance or knife 
and make a slight incision through the skin on the I'ight flank, (the 
ox is always punctured on the left flank, and the horse on the right), 
at a point where the tympanitic sound is most marked. As a rule, 
this point is midway between the edge of the last rib and the hip bone; 
and about six inches from the lateral processes of the spine — about 
where the cross mark is on Fig. 785. Take trocar and canula, put 
the point into the incision previously made with the knife. Direct 
the instrument inward, slightly downward and forward, and hit it 
a sharp blow with the flat of the hand to send the instrument 
through to the hilt. Now draw out the trocar, Avhen the gas will 
escape. When the escape of the gas has ceased, put a finger over 
the opening of the canula to prevent the air from filling in, and 
withdraw. When withdrawn, rub slightly Avith the finger over the 
wound, and leave it alone. Before performing the operation, give 



TYMPANITES, OE FLATULENT COLIC. 897 

four ounces of vegetable charcoal which has been kept dry, mixed 
with one quart of milk. The horse will have instant relief after 
the operation. If he remains quiet, feed nothing for about twelve 
hours. Grive flaxseed tea to drink. After the expiration of this 
time, feed bran mashes, with oatmeal or 
ground oats, and continue from four to six 
days, when the animal will be well. When 
there is no hope by medicine, this opera- 
tion is the only treatment that promises 
success. Should the horse be uneasy after 
the operation, give one of the balls used 
for inflammation of the bowels, which 
should be repeated once in from four to six 
hours until quiet." 

During the warm months Dr. Meyer 

=■ -^ Fig. 785.— The cross show- 

usually performs this operation from tag the location to be 
twenty- five to thirty times, to save life. punctured. 

His loss is about one in ten. 

I would add that during my experience in Bufialo, I had no 
occasion to perform this operation, the treatment given proving in 
every instance effective. This operation, according to standard 
authorities, has been regarded as seldom successful. I think the 




Fig. 786, — Method of puncturing the cow or ox when bloated. 
reason is that the case has been allowed to go too long before re- 
sorting to it. In a conversation with Dr. Meyer in relation to it, 
he stated that he regarded it as very valuable treatment, enabling 
him to cure a large proportion of cases which otherwise would be 
beyond help. As it may in some cases be found necessary to per- 

57 



898 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

form this operation, I give a diagram of the body, showing the lo- 
cation of the point to be punctured, and also add an excellent il- 
lustration of the method of performing it upon cows or oxen that 
may become bloated, — a very common occurrence in cattle that 
are turned iuto a clover-field, and eat too much ; and as most horse- 
owners are largely interested in cattle, I thought it of sufficient 
importance to give the illustration in connection with this arti- 
cle. 

I give other important remedies for colic — those used by the 
leading colleges and experts — under the head of Remedies, in the 
latter part of this work. 

When a horse is taken suddenly sick, especially after a drive, 
or after haviug been given cold water or a change of food, looking 
at his side, and acting as if he wanted to lie down, etc., simply 
catch him by the ear, and if it is warm, and the pulse is natural, 
it is always accepted as a proof of colic. Now, what can be done 
provided you have none of the medicine recommended ? Give 
about a tablespoonf ul of ginger in a pint of hot water, well stirred ; 
or giving as a drench from four to six ounces of good whisky or 
brandy, is sometimes ver}^ efiective. 

Hot fomentations to the sides and belly are also very efiective, 
using woolen blankets wrung out of water as hot as can be borne, 
and covered with two or three other cloths to retain the heat, and 
to be repeated as they cool. A hot bran poultice would be some- 
what better, as it would retain the heat longer. (Full directions 
for giving fomentations will be found under that head.) The 
fever medicine, given in doses of from a drachm to half an ounce, 
has also been found very efficient. 

Inflammation of the Bowels. 

Enteritis, also sometimes caUed red colic, may occur as a pri- 
mary disease, but more often it is seen as a consequence of colic 
or constipation of the bowels. It generally proves fatal. As an 
idiopathic afiection, that is, occurring independent of any other 
disease, it may occur from any of the causes of colic, particularly 
overloading the stomach. 

Symptoms. — The animal is noticed to be unwell; he is dull 
and stupid ; refuses food ; has shivering fits, the mouth becoming 
hot, and extremities alternately hot and cold, the pulse being 



INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 



899 



quick, small, and wiry. He looks toward his flanks; the bowels 
are costive; after a time pain sets in, and is continuous and vio- 
lent; he rolls about, the sweat pouring from him in streams; the 
eyes are blood-shot ; the belly hot and tender. He does not throw 
himself violently down, as in colic, but lies down cautiously, and 
tries to steady liimself on his back. As it goes on, the symptoms 
are augmented, the legs and ears get deathly cold, the pulse be- 
comes weaker, and soon is imperceptible ; the mouth gets cold and 
clammy ; extravasation of blood is going on in the bowels ; morti- 




FiG. 787. — First stage of Inflammation of the Bowels. 

fication sets in, the pain ceases, and he may stand up. He is dull 
and stupid, surface of the body cold, mouth cold, twitching of the 
muscles, and retraction of the upper lip. He soon falls violently 
to the ground, endangering the lives and limbs of the attendants 
who happen to be near him, and after a few struggles expires. 
After death, the bowels are very much inflamed, and the inner 
surface black and clotted with extra vasated blood. Death some- 
times occurs in from six to eight hours, and even in shorter time. 
When occurring in consequence of colic or constipation, it is very 
diflacult to determine the exact transition from spasm to inflam- 
mation. 



900 



DISEASES AJSTD THEIE TEEATMENT. 



Treatment. — ^In the outset, especially when occurring as a 
primary affection, and not as a consequence of another disease, copi- 
ous blood-letting will be advisable — from four to six quarts, or 
sufficient to make an impression on the pulse. He should be 
tU'Zned into a well-littered loose-box, and allowed to roll as he 
pleases. The bowels are obstinately constipated, but drastic pur- 
gatives are apt to increase the inflammation; our utmost efforts 
must therefore be directed to open them by copious injections (of 




Fig. 788. — ^A sure indication of Inflammation of the Bowels. 



linseed-tea, soap and water, tobacco-smoke, or infusion of tobacco,) 
back-raking, etc. A quart, of linseed-oil, with two ounces of 
laudanum, should be given, and repeated, in half the dose, every 
one or two hours, if required. Fomentations of hot water must 
be constantly applied to the belly, or bags wrung out of boil- 
ing water. Where, from the violent tossing of the animal, this is 
imjJtacticable, blister the belly with tincture of cantharides or 
mustard and turpentine. 

If the symptoms do not moderate in a few hours, the pulse 
continues full, and the legs and ears not very cold, a second bleed- 
ing may be advisable ; but this is seldom the case, as the prostra- 
tion is rapid, the pulse becoming small, wiry, and almost imper- 



INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 



901 



ceptible, and the legs and ears deathly cold. In this case bleeding 
but hastens the fatal termination. 

When it has continued eight or ten hours, if it takes a favor- 
able turn, the pulse becomes fuller, the surface warmer, and he 
will lie for some time stretched out, apparently asleep, being 
weakened from the disease and bleeding, and probably partially 
narcotized from the laudanum. In this stage he must be made 
comfortable, and covered up in straw or sheets. We usually 
"bury" him in straw.' This restores the balance of the circula- 
tion, often causing 
him to sweat ; and 
after lying thus 
for one or two 
hours, he will get 
up relieved, and 
begin to feed. 

No hay must 
be given him. 
After a little, he 
should be encour- 
aged to drink 
well-boiled gruel 




Fig. 789. — A symptom of inflammation of the bowels, 
or great internal pain. 



or eat a thin bran mash. Injections must be con- 
tinued till the bowels are freely opened. For a few days he must 
be kept warm; a few mouthfuls of cold water may be given 
every hour; gentle walking exercise and sloppy diet must be 
continued for some time. About the fourth day, even though the 
bowels have become regular, he should have a purgative (from six 
to eight drachms of aloes, made into a ball), to remove ingesta, and 
restore the secretions to their natural condition. 

The following is the treatment advised by Dr. Somerville : — 

" This disease is generally caused by constipation of the bowels, 
hard driving, over-purging or looseness of bowels, or drinking cold 
water when warm. Constipation is, however, the principal cause 
of the disease, and when this is the case, the fix^st and most impor- 
tant condition of relief is to get an action of the bowels. 

^^ Symptoms. — For the first few hours the horse is uneasy, paws, 
looks around at the side, the pulse is slightly accelerated and wiry. 
As the disease advances, the intermissions between the attacks be- 
come less, pulse quicker, running from seventy to eighty beats in a 
minute, in some instances even faster; lies down and gets up, shows 
much pain, no swelling of sides; now begins to exhibit fever, 
bowels constipated, urine highly colored and scanty. 



902 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

"Remedy. — Give a quart of raw linseed oil. If constipation is 
very great, add from four to six drops of croton oil. 

" If scours or over-purging, give an ounce and a half of the tinct- 
ure of opium with six ounces of water. But in order to suppress 
the inflammation, it is necessary to bleed immediately from the neck 
vein from six to ten quarts of blood, according to the strength and 
size of the animal. In extreme cases bleeding may be repeated to 
the extent of four to six quarts in three or four hours. If much 
pain exists in constipation, give from one to three ounces tincture 
asafoetida. Feed lightly for a week at least, giving gruel, roots, 
grass, and bran mashes, and keep quiet. Do not exercise for several 
days if there is danger of a relapse. This is a dangerous disease, 
and requires prompt treatment." 

Treatment advised by Dr. Charles A. Meyer: — 

"The first stage of inflammation of the bowels is when the ani- 
mal sits on his haunches like a pig, gradually gets up, and walks 
around as if in great agony ; makes attempts to lie down, and when 
he does, goes down very carefully ; may make a few rolls ; will 
gradually straighten out again, attempts to rise, and sits on his 
haunches again like a pig. This position is a sign of bowel inflam- 
mation, and to save the patient the treatment must begin in 
earnest. Should the patient be fat and plethoric, bleed from the 
neck from two to eight quarts, according to the size of the horse. 
Apply a strong rubifacient to the abdomen, of 1 lb of strong mus- 
tard, 2 oz. aqua ammonia, and water suflicient to make into plas- 
ter; rub in well, and cover with paper, to keep in the heat. Then 
give the following medicine: — 

' ' 4 drachms opium, pulverized. 
2 oz. subnitrate of bismuth. 
4 drachms chloroform. 
2\ drachms nux vomica, pulverized. 
Q. S. licorice root. 
"Make into four balls, give one every 4 to G hours, according to the un- 
easiness of the patient, who must be kept quiet, and these balls will do it. 
Feed soft, nutritious food, warm water, and no hay, for about one week. " 

SUPERPURGATION, DiAERHEA, ETC. 

An over-relaxed state of the bowels may arise from various 
causes. In some animals it is favored by peculiarities of confor- 
mation, as is seen in washy horses, animals with long legs, open ribs, 
and flat sides, with tucked-up bellies, such being liable to purge 
from the simplest cause. 

Change of feed, especially from dry to green, or unhealthful 
food, and sometimes through nervous excitement, is apt to produce 
scouring. It is usually the evidence of something wrong, and the 




Fio. 790. — General view of 
tlic horse's intestines, 
showinrj the distribution 
of blood to them 
by the great mesen- 
teric artery. The animal 
is placed on its back, and 
the intcctinal mass 
cprcad out. 



A. The duodenum as it 
passes behind the great 
mesentric crtery; D. Free 
portion of the small intes- 
tine; 0. IleocEscal portion ; 
B. C£2cum; U, i'', G. Loop 
formed by the large colon; 
O, Pelvic flexure; F, I'l 
Point v/^hcrc the colic loop 
iz doubled to constitute 
the i3i:iprasternar and dia- 
phragmatic flexures. 



904 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

effort of nature to remove it. Some irritant or indigested food 
being lodged in the bowels, the intestinal fluids are poured out in 
superabundance to remove it. The incautious use of purgative 
medicines is a common cause of superpurgation. It often occurs 
in the latter stages of debilitating diseases, when it is always an 
untoward symptom, betokening a breaking-up of the vital powers. 
The presence of little white wornns (ascarides) is occasionally the 
cause. It sometimes follows the drinking of cold water when an 
animal is in a heated state. 

Symptoms. — The symptoms vary according to the nature of 
the case, and the causes that give rise to it. It may be simply an 
increased fluidity of the contents of the bov^els, as is seen in washy 
or nervous animals, unaccompanied by pain or constitutional dis- 
turbance; or, on the other hand, it may be (as in superpurgation) 
attended by paia, expressed by the uneasiness, pawing, looking to 
the flanks, etc. He strains frequently, and the foeces are very 
watery ; the pulse is small and hard. Rapid and increasing weak- 
ness -and emaciation, loss of appetite, and unless means are speedily 
adopted to check it, inflammation of the bowels is apt to set in. 

Treatment. — Great care must be exercised in feeding and wat- 
ering washy horses, dry feed being best suited to them. They 
should not be allowed to drink too freely of Avater, especially be- 
fore work. In many cases it may be necessaiy to give them 
some starch or chalk mixed up in the feed. In all eases, the main 
point is to discover the cause. If arising from improper food, it 
must be chang-ed at once. 

If some irritant be suspected, nature must be assisted in her 
efibrts by giving a quart of linseed or castor oil, followed up by 
starch or well-boiled flour gruel, keeping the animal Avarm. If 
worms arc suspected, or seen ia the dung, one or two ounces of 
spirits of turpentine, or any of the vermifuges recommended, 
should be added to the oil. Should it not yield to this, neutralize 
the acids in the bowels by giving an ounce and a half of prepared 
chalk and a dram and a half of powdered catechu, mixed in a 
pint of water. Give once or twice a day until pui-ging ceases. 
Keep the animal without exercise, and do not give much water to 
drink. 

If this disease should arise from nervous excitement, give a 



CONSTIPATION. 905 

dracliin of powdered opium in the food once a day fox- thi-ee or 
four days. Or give the following astringent drench: — 

1 dracTim powdered opium, 
4 oz. prepared chalk, 
1 oz. gum acacia. 

Dissolve in -warm water, and give in well-boiled flour or starch gruel. It 
may be given two or three times a day, the gruel being given frequently. 
If very severe, injections of solution of catechu and starch, with a little tinct- 
ure of opium, should be given. 

The belly may be stimulated with liquid blister. He must be 
kept perfectly warm, and the legs bandaged. Care must be taken 
not to induce an opposite state of the bowels by the injudicious 
use of astringents. An ounce each of carbonate of soda and gin- 
ger should be given daily for some time after recovery. Rest and 
good dry food are necessary for some time. 

Constipation. 

. Constipation is a condition the very opposite of the above, in 
which we have a diminished action of the bowels, the dunof beinar 
dry and voided with difficulty, leading to dangerous " stoppage of 
the bowels." It arises from various causes, especially from being 
fed on dry, fibrous food. If in pasture in the fall, when the grass 
is tough and fibrous, with perhaps a scarce suppl}^ of water, the 
fibrous ingesta are liable to become felted together, and impacted 
in the bowels. Want of exercise, and feeding too much grain, 
are also prominent causes. 

It is sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the bowels. 
Horses that are kept up, or not worked regularly, and especially 
if fed on dry food, should have an occasional bran mash with 
plenty of water to drink. Or small doses of laxatives, aloes is the 
simplest and best, from two to four drachm doses, with green food. 
If accompanied by colic, or inflammation of the bowels, back-rak- 
ing, etc., must be resorted to until relieved. Green grass is about 
the best laxative. 

All horses, especially those advanced in years, should be 
watched carefully, and when there is any tendency to constipa- 
tion, it should be prevented, as before stated, by giving bran 
mashes, carrots, and raw potatoes; or, if thought advisable, a lit- 
tle oil or physic, with regular exercise and sufficient water, and 



906 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEBATMEJSTT. 




Fig. 791. — Symptom of worms. 



there will usuall}'' be no difficulty. It is very important to look 
to this condition ; neglecting it, colic, inflammation cl the bowels, 
etc., may result. 

Worms. 
Worms are most commonly found, in the stomach and bowels; 
they are also sometimes met with in al- 
most every part of the body. Investiga- 
tion shows there are over thirty kinds of 
worms that infest the horse. Dr. Hobert 
Jennings, about twenty years ago, at 
that time a resident of Borden Town, 
New Jersey, and noAv of Detroit, Michi- 
gan, informed the writer that he had traced out thirty different 
kinds in the horse, and among others exhibited a piece of muscle 
that was perforated by a largo number cf little Avhite worms 
from one to two inches long-. 

Mr. White, an old author, says: — 

'■I have found worms in the wind-pipe, in the mesenteric ar- 
tery, in an abscess in the substance of uhe abdominal muscles, and 
according to Lafosse, they have been found also in the pancreatic 
and salivary ducts." 

There are but three or four 
that are very common. First, 
the teres lumhrici, a large worm 
from four to ten inches long, 
that lives in the intestines. It 
looks like the common earth- 
worm, yellowish white and ta- 
pered at both ends. Second, the 
ascaris or ascarides, commonly 
called needle or thread- worm, of 
a dirty- white color, usually from ^^g. 793. 
one to two inches long. They 
are sometimes found in thousands. They have been observed chiefly 
inhabiting the mucous coat of the coecum, on the surface cf which, 
it is supposed, they are developed in little cells, which, w^hen ma- 
tured, burst, producing considerable irritation, and often serious 
inflammation of the parts. They are also sometimes found to in- 
fest the rectum in large numbers, and to relieve the irritation they 
produce, the horse rubbing his tail. 




The r.ppearance of a horse 
that is troubled -ivith worms. 



Y/OBMS. 



907 



Varieties of strongyli and oxyures 
also occur, and are sometimes mis- 
taken for ascaris. Thej are, how- 
ever, distinct species; the formier is 
tapered, and terminates in a spine, 
"whereas the latter is blunted, with a 
head like a leather sucker. The 
strongyli inhabit the coecum, colon, 
and duodenum ; the oxyures, the mes- 
entery, spermatic cord, and in fact 
almost every organ in the body. The 
common whip-worm, or long thread- 
worm, technically called the tricho- 
cephalus dispar, are found in the co8- 
cum. They resemble a whip, the 
shank being about a third, and the 
thong two thirds of the length, usually 
about two inches. Bots, which in- 
habit the stomach, will be referred 
to especially following this article. 

There is also a small thread-like 
worm, called fdaria, from a half inch 
to an inch and a half long, . which 
travels all through the system. This 
is the worm that sometimes gets into 




Fig. 



793. — Ascaria Lurnbrlcorde. 
Female; d, Male; natural 



the eye and grows there. The tape- 
worm is sometimes found in the horse, 
for which I give a specific remedy used 
by Dr. Meyer with great success. (I give illustrations of r. few 



Fig. 794. — Ascaride margmata, enlarged, 

worms, though not of all that I desired, on account of the diffi- 
culty of obtaining them. They will not, however, be of any special 
interest or importance to the general reader. Hence those ob- 



908 



DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 




Fig. 795. — Ascaride 
mystax. 

a. Male; h. Female; 



tained are put in without regard to much tech- 
nical explanation.) 

Symptoms of worms are debility, feeble- 
ness, sluggish movements, emaciation, staring 
coat, hide bound, skin covered with blotches, 
irregular and capricious appetite, tucked up 
belly, pallid appearance of the lining mem- 
brane of the lip, badly digested f seces, rubs 
the tail, and where fundament worms exist, a 
whitish substance will be found about the fun- 
dament. Many horses have worms, and their 
presence is never suspected till they appear in 
the dung. Troublesome diarrhea is sometimes 
produced by the presence of ascarides in the 
coecum, and are sometimer.; 
found in vast numbers in 
the rectum. 

Treatment. — The horse 
should be put on bran 
mashes for a few days, then 
give him nothing but water 



c, d. The expansion of for eight or ten hours, then 
i" ."SLS :,?: give the foUowiag drench:^ 

1 quart linseed oil, 

2 ounces spirits of turpentine. 

In an hour after give a warm bran mash, 
and next morning give a dose of physic. If 
thought necessary, in about a week this may 
be repeated. 

Dr. Somerville claimed there was no better 
medicine for the destruction of worms than 
calomel, and advised it to be given in the fol- 
lowing combinations : — 

3 drachms calomel, 
1 drachm tartar emetic. 




Fui. 796.— Young Fila- 
ria thread-worm. 

A. Young worm r.s 
rolled up in the body of 
the mother ; U. The 
same unrolled in a drop 
of water ; a. Head, with 
the protuberances and 
mouth ; h. Origin of the 
tail, with the anus 
Mix, and divide into three powders, one to bo C^aekside). 

given at night for three successive nights, to be followed in twenty-four hours 

with a good purging ball. Or, — ■ 



WOEMS. 



909 



4 drachms aloes, 

1 drachm tartar emetic, 

2 drachms ginger, 

About the size of a bean of calomel, and molasses enough to make into a 
ball. To be given every morning for three days. 




Fig. 797. — Strongula, enlarged. 

Dr. Hamill found that in treating inflammation of the extrem- 
ities caused by injuries, such as getting a nail in the foot, where 
excessive, that occasionally after giving a dose of aloes and calo- 
mel largo numbers of worms were expelled. • Would advise from 
two to four drachms calomel, with aloes according to size and 
tempei-ament of the horse. 

This is also corroborated by Dr. White, who advises to give 




Fig. 798. — T^nia Solium, natural size. Fragments taken from distance to distance. 

The head is above, and very small. The last segments are longer than 

wide, show alternately the genital opening at the right and left. 

one or two drachms of calomel with a dose of physic; or the calo- 
mel at night, and a dose of physic in the morning. Or give a 
drachm of calomel for three successive nights previous to the 
physic. 

The following for worms was given the writer by a veterinary 
surgeon of very high standing: — 



910 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

" Take hickory-wood, sumac-wood, and ordinary white ash, 
and burn to ashes. Feed a largo spoonful twice a day for three 
days. Then follow up with a cathartic," 

Prof. Gamgee's favorite remedy: — 
" 2 drachms assafoetida, 
IJ drachma each, calomel and savin, 
30 drops oil of male fern. 
"Mass sufficient to form a ball to be given at night, and a purge in the 
morning. " 

Dr. Sheldon, formerly of New York City, depended mainly 
upon santonine, by the use of which he claimed great success, and 
which he also claims never fails to clean the worms out of a horse. 
He treated as follows: — 




Fig. 799. — Taenia Solium, This cut shows the sexual passage communicating with 

the uterus, which is filled with eggs, and forming the black central mass. 

The second canal which goes out from the passage (opening) 

toward the uterus, is the male organ. 

" First, give bran mash. In 24 hours give one drachm of san- 
tonine, which should be dissolved in water ; then mix in a quart of 
starch, and give as a drench ; in 30 minutes give aloes in solution 
sufficient to move the bowels promptly." 

I include also a favorite horse-jockey remedy, which is re- 
garded very good: — 

" 1 ounce aloes, 

3 ounces spirits of turpentine, 
6 eggs. 
" Make into an emulsion, beaten together ; give to the horse after be- 
ing fed with two or three bran mashes." 
Dr. White says: — 

" A run at grass in the spring is perhaps the best remedy of all, 
for it is the most effectual means of invigorating the digestive or- 
gans and purifying the blood. When it is not convenient to turn 
the horse out, he should be fed green grass in the stable." 



WOEMS. 911 

For tape-worm,, take four ounces powdered pumpkin-seeds and 
a half to one pound of veal, cooked together until the substance is 
out of the meat. Make into a soup. 

How to use : Fast for twenty-four hours, then eat one-half ; 
after an hour take the other half, then take a brisk cathartic. 
This is the proportion for a man. For a horse, one pound pump- 
kin-seeds to one pound veal, and give as a drench. 

This treatment was given by Dr. Meyer, who claims it is 
specific. Said he had one case of tape- worm in a horse, and it was 
the means of making a cure. 

A few years ago, a gentleman who had been in the treasury 
department at Washington, informed the writer that he had suf- 
fered for years with tape- worm, and was entirely cured by taking 
pumpkin-seeds masserated, and he knew of a number of friends 
who had been cured by the same remedy. 

This remedy is introduced mainly for the benefit of those who 
may be afflicted with tape- worm. 

The following was given the writer by a special friend (a vet- 
erinary surgeon of high standiug), as the treatment he would ad- 
vise for the cure of worms ; and though in part a repetition of 
what is given, it is so gqod that I include it: — 

First, Lambricoids ca,n be removed by drastic purges of aloes, 
or aloes and calomel. If calomel be given in from two to four 
drachm doses, on a fasting stomach of twelve hours, then fast from 
ten to twelve hours afterward, after which give small doses of 
aloes or saline purges, it will destroy nearly all traces of worms or 
parasites in the stomach and intestines, even clearing out bots. 
The best general treatment advised is santonine, areca nut, and 
male fern. Of santonine, better known as worm seed, the dose is 
from one to four drachms, according to the size and temperament 
of the horse. For the small, nervous, well-bred horse, the smallest 
dose would be sufficient ; while for a large coarse-grained cart- 
horse the larger dose of four drachms will be necessary. Of the 
same quantities of powdered areca nut and male fern, about one 
ounce is the average dose. All vermifuge medicine should be 
taken while fasting, as better results will thereby be obtained; let- 
ting the horse fast ten or twelve hours before giving the medicine, 
and nearly as long afterwards. It is not necessary to give physic 



912 DISEASES AJSTD THEIE TEEATMBNT. 

after either of these medicines. Nearly all parasites in horses 
can be expelled by the judicious use of calomel. 

BOTS. 

As among most owners and horse-doctors, every obscure lame- 
ness in the foot is supposed to bo in the shoulder ; so, when a horse 
is taken sick, nine times out of ten it is supposed to be caused by 
bots. If the horse turns up his upper lip, looks at his side, shows 
uneasiness, paws, and rolls, it is taken as a sure sign of bots. 

It is claimed that as a rule bots are harmless parasites, seldom 
producing much mischief, and to be found in almost every horse 
that dies, sometimes in great numbers, adhering to the coats of 
the stomach ; but about this there is much difference of opinion. 

Prof. Law on the subject: — 

"Bots tiro the larva of the gadfly^ which are noticed to be so 
common, pestering the horse during the summer and autumn, dart- 
ing at him around his legs and sides, and depositing their eggs on 
the hair of the parts. These eggs are caught by the horse when 
ho licks the jjarts in defending himself, and swallowed. In the 
stomach they develop rapidly. By the aid of the hooks around 
their heads they attach themselves to the mucous membrane mainly 
of the left half of the stomach (See Fig. 800), but often also to other 
parts, such as the right side of the stomach, the duodenum or small 
gut leading from the stomach, and the throat. There they steadily 
grow in the winter, and in spring pass out in the dung, burroAV in 
the soil, and are transformed into the gadfly. The disturbance they 
cause dc])ends on their numbers and the portions of the canal on 
which they attach themselves. In the throat they produce a 
chronic sore throat and discharge from the nose, which continues 
until the following spring, unless they are previously extracted 
with the hand. In the left half of the stomach, which is covered 
with a thick, insensible cuticle, they do little harm when in small 
numbers; hence Bracy Clark supposed them to be rather beneficial 
in stimulating the secretion of gastric juice. 

"When very numerous, and above all, when attached to the 
highly sensitive right half of the stomach or the duodenum, they 
seriously interfere Avith digestion, causing the animals to thi'ive 
badly, to be weak, and easily sweated or fatigued, and even deter- 
mining sudden and fatal indigestions. This last result is especially 
liable to occur in spring or early summer, when the bots are pass- 
ing out in great immbers, and hooking themselves at intervals to 
the coats of the sensitive bowels in their course. They Avill some- 
times accumulate in such numbers as actually to block the pas- 



BOTS. 



913 



In discussing the subject, White says: — 

" They are generally attached to the cuticular or insensible coat 
of the stomach; but sometimes clusters of them are found at the 
pylorus, and even in the beginning of the first intestine named 
duodenum. In one case they were so numerous in this last situa- 
tion as to obstruct the passage completely, and cause the animal's 
death." 

Feron, an old writer, says he has paid particular attention to 
this ' subject, and 
has found that 
when in large 
quantities, they are 
very destructive to 
horses; that he had 
seen several horses 
whose stomachs 
had been pierced 
quite through by 
them, the bots mak- 
ing their way into 
the abdomen. 

James Clark, of 
Edinburgh, an au- 
thor of high stand- 
ing, quoted in shoe- 
ing, relates a case 
of a horse's stomach 




Fig. 800,- 



-The gadfly, depositing eggs, with 
full-grown bots. 

1. The female &y about to deposit an egg; 2. The egg 
magnified ; 3. The bot ; 4. The eggs magnified, attached 
to a hair; 5. The newly hatched bot; 6. The bot full 

b e i n o- perforated grown; 7. The head of a bot magnified; 8. The male fly; 

1 1 I 9. The chrysalis. 

by bots. •' 

In Vol. II., page 73, "White's Farriery," Dr. White says: — 

" I have seen several horses destroyed by these worms. In 
some of them they caused inflammation of the lungs ; in one 
phrenzy, or mad staggers; and in one horse, the pylorus was com- 
pletely plugged up with them. There is a remarkable sympathy 
or consent between the stomach and lungs, and it is owing to this 
that they sometimes cause inflammation of the lungs. In the cases 
which have occurred in my practice, the most remarkable circum- 
stance was the great depression they occasioned." 

Symptoms.^ — ^There is no way, so far as I know, and I have 
consulted a great many veterinary surgeons on the subject, of de- 
termining the symptoms of bots. A horse is taken sick, showing 

58 



914 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 

all the symptoms of colic ; he is treated for that difficulty, is cured, 
and the trouble is presumed to have been colic. According to the 
Ijcst authorities I can find, 'the conclusioii is that the symptoms of 
l)ots cannot be distinguished from other diseases of the stomach 
and bowels; that sometimes when occurring in dense clusters 
around the pylorus or in the first bowel, they interfere mechan- 
ically Avith digestion, and keep the animal weak and emaciated, and 
subject to slight attacks of colic, capricious appetite, and irregular 
bowels. Beyond these indications, which may be identified Avith 
other difficulties, there is no way of determining whether they are 
the cause of annoyance. 

Treatment. — This is doubtful. I give that Avhich has been 
advised as the most effectual. White says: — 

" The most likely means of expelling bots is to keep the horse 
without food during the night, and give him in the morning a quart 
of neAV milk sweetened Avith honey; and about ten minutes after, 
give four, fiA'^e, or six ounces of salt in a quart of Avater." 

Dr. Feron remarks that — 

" Common oil given in large quantities has sometimes succeeded 
in detaching bots from the stomach. It is the only medicine that 
seems to have any effect in making them loosen their hold on that 
organ." 

Blaine says that the continued use of salt mixed with the food 
appears to be obnoxious to them ; for sometimes under its use their 
hold gives Avay, and they are ejected. 

The popular remedy for bots is sweet milk and molasses, 
which 'is more safe than reliable. The following is recom- 
mended :- — 

' ' 3 draclinis each of aloes and assaf oetida, nibbed down in liot Avater, 
and when cool add an ounce each of turpentine and ether. To be given 
every second day for a Aveek, leaiving out aloes if bowels become too open." 

To relieve pain aad uneasiness, any of the colic mixtures are 
to be given. 

Prof. Law advises giving potato juice to feed and quiet the 
bots, adding some colic medicine if thought necessary. 

In a report by Dr. Adams in relation to the subject, published 
about fifteen years ago in the " Medical and Agricultural Regis- 
ter," he stated, having made the following experiments at differ- 
ent times on bots three-fourths groiuv, that — 



INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 915 

" When immersed in rum, they live 25 hours ; decoction of to- 
bacco, 11 hours; strong- oil of vitriol, 2 hours, 18 minutes ; essential 
oil of mint, 2 hours, 5 minutes. Were immersed without apparent 
injury in spirits of camphor, 10 hours; fish oil, 49 hours; tinct. 
aloes, 10 hours; in brine, 10 hours; solution indigo, 10 hours. A 
number of small bots, with one that was full grown, were immersed 
in a strong solution of corrosive sublimate ; the small ones died in 
one hour, but the full-grown one was taken out of the solution, six 
hours after its immersion, apparently unhurt." 

Inflammation of the Kidneys. 

Inflammation of the kidneys is generally caused by hard work, 
by slipping, throwing the hind parts so suddenly under the belly 
as to produce undue tension of the lumbar vertebrae, or from sud- 
den colds by being exposed to rain and cold, the eating of musty 
hay or oats, or unhealthy food of any kind. Too powerful or too 
often repeated diuretics produce inflammation of the kidneys, or a 
degree of irritation and weakness of them that disposes to inflam- 
mation, from causes that would otherwise have no injurious effect. 

Symptoms. — Less or more fever of the system generally, and 
unwillingness to move, particularly the hind legs, dung hard and 
coated, very sensitive to pressure on the spine. The horse looks 
anxiously round at his flanks, stands with his hind legs wide 
apart, and straddles as he walks, shows pain in turning ; the urine 
is voided in small quantities, and is usually high colored, some- 
times bloody; the attempt to urinate becomes more frequent, and 
the quantity voided smaller, until the animal strains violently, 
without being able to pass any or but very little urine. The pulse 
is quick and hard, full in the early stage of the disease, but 
rapidly becoming small, though not losing its character of hard- 
ness. Introduce the hand into the rectum. If the bladder is 
found full and hard under the rectum, there is inflammation of 
the neck of the bladder. If the bladder is empty, yet on the por- 
tion of the intestines immediately over it there is more than nat- 
ural heat and tenderness, there is inflammation of the body of the 
bladder. If the bladder is empty and there is no increased ten- 
derness and heat, there is inflammation of the kidneys. 

Treatment. — If the pulse is high, about sixty, take five or six 
quarts of blood, and give a fever ball ; to be repeated in three 
hours if not better. Fever ball: 4 drachms Barbadoes aloes, 1 
drachm tartar emetic, 2 drachms ginger, calomel about the size of 



916 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

a bean, molasses sufficient to make into a ball. Counter irritation 
must next be excited over the seat of the disease. The loins should 
be fomented with hot water or covered with mustard poultice, or, 
better, heat a peck of salt in an oven, place it in a bag, and put it 
over the part affected. If the case is severe and protracted, a 
sharp blister may be used. No diuretics are to he given, as they 
would simply aggravate, and make the disease worse. After the 
bowels are open, give aconite, and treat as for fever. After re- 
covery, the horse should be kept very quiet for a month, and if in 
season, turned out to grass. If in winter, feed with light mashy 
diet; exercise lightly by leading, if the animal be valuable and it 
is desired to aid recovery by extra care. 

Profuse Staling (Diuresis). 

Profuse staling, sometimes called diabetes, consists principally 
of simple, increased secretion of urine, without any apparent 
structural disease of the kidney, or much alteration of the compo- 
sition of the urine, so characteristic of this affection in man. 

Causes. — It arises in a great measure from feeding musty or 
heated hay, exposure to cold, etc. Frequently it occurs as an ac- 
companiment of acidity of the stomach, or from the improper use 
of diuretics, as nitre, saltpetre, resin, etc., which are frequently 
given in large quantities for some time by grooms and ignorant 
persons, not knowing the harm they are doing thereby. It is of 
these ingredients also that most of the " condition powders " kept 
for sale, which are often liberally fed, are composed. It is not 
prudent, or at all necessary, to give such medicine, excepting for 
specific purposes, and then very cautiously. Intelligent owners 
give but very little medicine. Instead, they give bran mashes, 
etc., with good air, regular exercise, and grooming. 

Symptoms. — The intense thirst first attracts attention; he is 
constantly craving for water, and rapidly loses condition; the coat 
becomes rough and staring; he passes large quantities of clear 
urine, his litter being constantly wet. He will be seen poking 
among his litter, which he often eats with avidity in preference to 
good hay. If it goes on unchecked, great prostration sets in, the 
heart beats tumultuously, the throbbing being often visible at the 
side, the pulse being irregular and intermittent. 

Treatment, — It is generally very easily checked if taken in 



mPLAMMATION OP THE BLADDEE (CYSTITIS). 01 T 

time; a complete change of diet is indispensable; give good swoet 
hay; carrots are recommended. The bowels must be freely 
opened. Iodine in doses of two drachms, once or twice a day, is 
claimed to be a never-failing remedy, very useful in correcting the 
thirst and checking the flow of urine. 

The following ball may be given night and morntag: — 

1 drachm iodine, 
1 drachm iodide of potassium, 
1 drachm barbadoes aloes j 
Licorice and syrup sufficient to make a ball. 

Or, give one of the following balls every night: — 

^ ounce powdered opium, 
1 ounce powdered kino, 
1 ounce prepared chalk. 
Mix with molasses, and make sixTDalls. 

Tonics should be commenced early. In some cases it can be 
arrested by making him drink water with pipe-clay or peasemeal 
shaken up in it. A run at pasture will often cure it. 

Inflammation of the Bladdee (Cystitis). 

Causes. — It may arise from the too free use of diuretic medi- 
cines, or from the injudicious use of fly blisters or turpentine ; 
sometimes from the presence of concretions or gravelly deposits in 
the bladder, or an extension of spasm, or inflammation of other or- 
gans. 

Symptoms. — ^Almost the same as those of inflammation of the 
kidneys. Frequent voiding of urine in small quantities, quick 
pulse, looks frequently at flanks, paws violently, tender when 
pressed upon under the flanks. 

When the body of the viscus is the seat of the disease, it be- 
comes very irritable, the urine being passed almost as soon as it 
reaches the bladder, the act of staling being almost constantly 
going on. 

The other symptoms are nearly analogous to nephritis; when 
examined by the hand in the rectum, it is found empty, hot, and 
tender. When the neck of the bladder is the seat of the disease, it 
will be found distended with urine, and, instead of frequent stal- 
ing, we have almost complete suppression of urine. 



^18 DISEASES AISTD TIIEIE TEEATMENT. 

Treatment. — The treatment resembles that recommended for 
nephrites, which see. Should the contraction of the neck con- 
tinue, a gum elastic catheter should be introduced, or a little warm 
oil may (in the mare) be injected into the bladder. Small doses 
of bicarbonate of soda or potash should be given to neutralize the 
urine, which is usually acid. 

Here the principal object is to lower inflammation and relax 
the muscular contraction of the neck of the bladder. Bleed 
largely, almost to fainting; give physic as for inflammation of the 
kidneys, or a quart of linseed oil. A drachm of powdered opium, 
made into a ball, or given in drink, every two or three hours, and 
blister over the loins. Give aconite, as for inflammation of the 
kidneys.* 

Eetention of Ueine. 

The most common cause is keeping the animal active, not giv- 
ing time to urinate, and a spasm of the neck of the bladder or 
gravelly concretions; any cause of irritation may cause spasm. 
Symptoms are the same as in inflammation of the kidneys, except 
standing very wide behind, and when walking, a straddling gait re- 
sembling a cow with a very full bag. 

The most prompt treatment is to use the catheter, and scarcely 
anything more is necessary. But if one is not obtainabte, bleed 
freely, and give a strong opiate: 3 oz. tinct. opium, in half a pint 
of water. 

Bloody Urine 

Is generally the result of injuries of the loins, unwholesome food, 
violent exercise, etc. 

Treatment. — Give plenty of linseed tea to drink ; if the animal 
refuses it, drench him. Give internally, once a day, one of the 
following pills : sugar of lead, 1 oz. ; linseed meal, 2 oz. Mix 
with molasses and divide into eight parts. 

Diseases of the Nervous System. 

The nervous system consists of the brain, which is lodged in 
the cavity of the skull (cranium) ; the spinal cord, lodged in the 
cavity of the vertebral chain; and numerous little white cords, 

* If possible, call a veterinary surgeon, who will introduce a catheter, which 
will relieve the animal immediately. 



INFLAMMATIO:^: OF THE BEAIJST (PHRENITIS). 919 

called nerves, which are given out from the brain and spinal cord, 
and distributed to the different parts of the body, especially those 
parts endowed with sensibility, and under the control of the will. 
Besides this system of nerves, there is another set, independent of 
the cerebro-spinal axis, called the sympathetic or ganglionic sys- 
tem, which supplies the organs of nutrition and other viscera, blood- 
vessels, etc. It consists of numerous small centers, called ganglia, 
extending in two great chains from the head to the tail, on each 
side of the bodies of the vertebrae, closely associated with the other 
system by intricate communication. 

Inflammation of the Beain (Phrenitis). 

Phrenitis is not a very common disease, though the substance 
of the brain itself, or, as is 
more commonly the case, its 
membranes, or coverings, be- 
come inflamed. It has received 
various appellations, such as 
mad staggers, sleepy staggers, 
etc. 

Causes. — The causes are 
not thoroughly understood. 
Injuries to the skull, 'metasta- 
sis, or the transference of in- 
flammation from some of the 
other organs, high condition 

and overwork, undue exposure to a hot sun, all seem to be fav- 
orable to its production. Horses that are too highly fed are sub- 
ject to this, while moderately fed horses are scarcely eVer inclined 
to it. 

Symptoms. — It is usually ushered in by dullness and persist- 
ent drowsiness ; he stands with his head between his legs, or some- 
times resting against the manger or leaning against the wall; the 
eyes shut, and the pupils dilated ; the pulse is full, soft, and slow ; 
the breathing is heavy and loud ; he is very difficult to arouse, and 
when startled, he looks dreamily about; may take a few bites of 
hay, but soon drops asleep again ; the bowels are costive, and the 
urine scanty and high colored. 

In a day or two the symptoms are mitigated, or it goes on to 




Fig. 801. — Symptom of inflammation of 
the brain. 



920 DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. 

the second stage, when the pulse becomes quick, general excitement 
takes the place of lethargic stupor ; the countenance is wild and ex- 
.cited looking ; the eyes are blood-shot and staring ; delirium sets in ; 
he dashes himself furiously about, reels and staggers, often throws 
himself violently down ; lies trembling, blowing, and convulsed ; his 
blood-shot eyes like to start out of their sockets; he will soon get 
up, rear and plunge forward, breaking everything around him; 
evidently unconscious of the injuries he is sustaining; and, what is 
characteristic of the complaint, his destruction is carried on evi- 
dently without purpose, as is evinced in rabies, or madness. The 
convulsions become more frequent and continuous, and death ends 
his misery in from twenty to twenty-four hours. 

Treatment. — Copious blood-letting must be at once resorted 
to; no time should be lost in giving a strong dose of purgative 
medicine. One or both jugulars may be opened, or where, from the 
restlessness of the patient or danger in working about him, this is 
impracticable, the lancet should be plunged into the temporal ar- 
tery, which will be found about three inches below the ear, be- 
tween it and the nostril. 

The following drench should be given: — 

6 drachms Barbadoes aloes, 
^ oz. carbonate of soda, 
15 croton beans finely powdered, 
Shaken up in a quart of warm water. 

Three drachms of aloes may be given every three hours with co- 
pious injections every hour, till the bowels are freely opened. Sed- 
atives should also be used, such as extract of hyoscyamus and cal- 
omel, a drachm of each shaken up in a little thin gruel, given every 
two hours. Seldom is repetition of blood-letting advisable; cold 
water should be constantly applied to the head ; a small hose made 
to play upon it in a constant stream, where it is convenient, will 
be found very useful. 

The favored prescription of a very successful practitioner is: 
" Give on the tongue every six hours about 1 drachm of the extract 
of conium." He gave this after falling. 

Dr. Somerville's explanation and treatment of this difficulty 

are so plain and good, that I include them : — 

" Is first noticeable by dullness or sleepiness of the eyes, an un- 
willingness to move, general heaviness of the system. This disease 



MEGEIMS, OE VEETIGO. 921 

is frequently called megrims, fits, and mad staggers; but in part only- 
one disease, according to the extent of such disease as the animal 
may be affected with. 

"The cause of staggers is an undue flow of blood to the brain, 
which rarely or never occurs in any animals except those in a 
plethoric (fat) condition. 

" Some writers and practitioners assert that there is a disease 
known as stomach staggers. I have never seen a case where it 
was necessary to treat the stomach, but always direct attention to 
the brain, as being the seat of this disease, which may be properly 
called head staggers. 

"In case of megrims, or fits, it is merely a lesser attack, or press- 
ure of the blood-vessels on the brain, and mad staggers is a greater 
pressure of the same vessels on the same part. The brain is divided 
into two parts, namely, cerebrum and cerebellum, which occupy a 
horny box in the head. The blood-vessels passing over the brain 
and coming in contact with the skull, become distended by an in- 
creased quantity of blood, and produce the feeling which is thus 
exhibited. 

" There is but one cure for this disease, and that is, remove the 
cause. Bleed largely from the neck — ten, twelve, or fourteen 
quarts, or until the symptoms of fainting. After the horse is con- 
valescent, a sharp dose of physic should be given to regulate the 
bowels. I would advise owners of such horses to dispose of them. 
Once taken with the disease, they are subject to a repetition of the 
attack when the blood-vessels become filled again. 

^'JVote. — Small doses of aconite (of the quantity for fever) may 
be given three or four times a day as a good preventive. Turning 
horses to pasture that may be. liable to this disease will prove both 
injurious and dangerous." 

When driven in the hot sun, the head should be protected with 
some sort of covering, which is now used very generally in many 
large cities, or a large sponge, kept wet with water, may be tied 
on the back of the head. 

Megrims, or Vertigo. 

The form of nervous complication known as megrims is not un- 
common. Its nature is but imperfectly determined. 

Causes- — It is often connected with worms or other derange- 
ments of the stomach or bowels, said also to depend on over-accu- 
mulation of blood in the head. The late Professor John Barlow 
found tumors in the choroid plexus of the brain. In these cases, 
it is often connected with over-feeding, and its consequence is de- 
rangement of the digestive organs. 

It is most commonly seen in harness horses, usually during hot 



922 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

weather, occurs generally on a heavy pull going up hill; probably 
from pressure of the collar interruj)ting the return of blood from 
the head, or " the long-continued constraint the bearing-reins put 
the head to," may prove the exciting causes in animals predisposed 
to it. 

Symptoms. — All at once, when going along the road, he is 
observed to jerk up his head in a convulsive manner; he seems 
giddy, reels, staggers, may fall down and lie for a few moments 
insensible ; he gets up, looks stupidly about, shakes himself, and 
proceeds as if nothing had happened. 

At other times he merely stops, experiences a few convulsive 
movements of the head, with slight giddiness, which by letting 
him stand a few minutes soon passes off. He is ever after subject 
to these fits, especially during the hot summer months. 

Treatment. — When depending on organic changes in the 
brain, it is incurable, and is subject to these attacks from time to 
time. When a fit coraes on on the road, stop him at once, throw 
the collar forward off his shoulders and let him stand; if conven- 
ient, pour a stream of cold water over his head. Bleeding in the 
mouth has been recommended, but is quite empirical; it soon 
passes off When occurring in a young horse for the first time, he 
should be well physicked out, and if worms are suspected, treat as 
recommended for worms. Tonics are often beneficial, especially 
arsenic given in doses of from three to five grains daily. Megrim 
subjects are dangerous hacks, and should only be used where they 
can do no harm to life or property. 

Sun Stroke. 

This is liable to occur during the hot summer months, particu- 
larly in large cities. It is usually caused by over- work or hard 
driving in the sun. Horses that are fat and young, and old, fee- 
ble horses are most subject to it. Wearing a sun-shade or a large 
sponge saturated with water on the top of the head, giving cool 
water occasionally, and sponging out the nostrils, and wetting the 
head, with of course moderate work or driving, are the best pre- 
ventives, A very good plan, when driving through the coun- 
try, where accessible, is to tie a few branches well covered with 
leaves so as to come over the head. They also serve to keep the 
flies away. 



PAETIAL PAEALYSIS. 023 

For light driving, a breast-strap is better than a collar, be- 
cause it permits more freedom of the circulation. 

Symptoms. — In severe cases the horse will suddenly stop, pant 
violentl}'-, possibly drop to the ground and die in a short time. 
When the attack is mild, he will flag in his gait, be unsteady in 
his limbs, spread his legs in standing, and totter. The head is 
held low, the eyes protrude, the nostrils are dilated, the pupils of 
the eyes smaller than natural, and the breathing rapid. Pulse is 
quick and weak, the heart beating violently and irregularly. Re- 
lief must be prompt. 

Treatment. — Unharness, and throw pails of cold water over 
the whole body, especially on the back of the head, neck, and 
spine. Next, rub the skin energetically with rough cloths or bag- 
ging, or anything convenient. Then repeat the douching. The 
best of all medicine, it is claimed, is quinine. The quickest way 
to get its effect would be to inject from 25 to 50 or 60 grains un- 
der the skin with a hypodermic syringe. This is the remedy used 
in the East Indies, and it is claimed to be the very best in giving 
relief. 

As a prompt difFusable stimulant during the severe depression, 
the following may be given: — 

2 ounces sulphuric ether, 
1 pint water, 
Given as a drench. Or, 15 to 25 drops tincture of aconite, in a pint 
of ale. 

After the attack has passed off, the horse should be turned out 
where he will be well protected from the glare of the sun by trees, 
etc., and allowed to rest for a few weeks; and if it can be avoided, 
he should not be driven afterward in the hot sun. 

AzoTUKiA, Partial Paralysis, Spinal Meningitis, etc. 

Under these and other names we will notice a disease which is 
at times very common in this country, and very alarming in its 
aspect, from the suddenness of its attack and severitj^ of its symp- 
toms, producing almost complete loss of power of the hind quar- 
ters. 

Causes.— It usually occurs in horses which are being "fed 
up," or which have been accustomed to hard work, and are al- 
lowed to remain in the stable for a few days, having a liberal al^ 



924 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

lowance of good feed; the system becomes plethoric, more blood 
being formed than the system can dispose of, whereby the vascu- 
lar organs are overloaded, and consequently, under increased ac- 
tion caused by exertion, they are apt to become congested. 

Symptoms. — The animal is apparently in excellent health and 
spirits. He starts off lively ; but before he has gone far, he sud- 
denly stops, crouches, seems very much distressed. The sweat 
rolls off him in streams; he blows and heaves at the flanks; he 
cannot move for a few minutes. He drops on his hind quarters ; 
can hardly drag them after him. When made to move, he drops 
as if his leg was dislocated or broken. The pulse is very high, 
from sixty to eighty, and the muscles of the quarter are swollen 
and hard. In some cases he gets down, and cannot get up again; 
but seldom is loss of power at first complete, or sensibility entirely 
lost. The urine is generally very high colored ; we have seen it 
black or coffee colored, which is a sure proof of the trouble, and 
always voided with difficulty. 

Treatment. — When seen in the early stages, abstract six 
quarts of blood,* remove the urine with a catheter, and give from 
7 to 8 drachms of aloes. Persistently apply hot water cloths to 
the loins, and cover them up well with dry blankets, changed 
every half hour. Give 20 drops of tincture of aconite in a little 
cold water every two hours, till the fever subsides. If the pain is 
very severe and twitching, give the following drench: — 

2 ounces sweet spirits of nitre, 

2 ounces tincture of opium, 

1 quart cold water. Mix. 

Injections of soap and water should be given, and the legs 
well rubbed and bandaged. It is important also that he be turned 
gently, about every three hours, and that his bedding be made as 
comfortable as possible. According to modern practitioners, who 
have had decided success in the treatment of this disease, it is not at 
all necessary to put in slings. In fact, the better recoveries are 
made without putting in slings; neither should he be urged to get 

* Thei-e is some difference of opinion as to the propriety of bleeding. Some of 
the best practitioners do not now bleed for this difficulty, and while I should regard 
it good treatment, it may be omitted, as physicking with other treatment, will usually 
give sufficient relief ; but if the case is very hearty, short-necked, and full blooded, 
bleeding would seem to be advisable. 



PAETIAL PAEALYSIS. 925 

up too soon; will usually do so of his own accord when able, but 
may be helped a little. 

In most cases it will yield to this treatment, and in three or 
four days he will be convalescent. However, ia many the loss of 
power increases; he makes frequent efforts to get up, but cannot 
support himself behind. In these cases the spine should be freely 
blistered with mustard and turpentine, or with the strong ammo- 
niacal liniment. Good nursing and care are everything; in fact, 
indispensable. Give restricted diet, carrots, bran mash, etc. 
When all fever and acute symptoms have subsided, and recovery 
of power is tardy, give the following ball night and morning : — 

1 drachm nux vomica in powder, made into a ball, with linseed meal 
and extract of gentian. Or, 2 grains strychnine, made into a ball in the 
same way. 

The nux vomica or strychnine, whichever is used, should be 
gradually increased, until to the maximum of what the system 
will bear without serious disturbance, when it should be stopped, 
or the dose diminished. He should be well bedded up with straw, 
and as before stated, turned as often as once in every three to four 
hours. It often runs its course in from thirty-six to forty-eight 
hours, usually, however, in from three to six days. It is more 
fatal in stallions and geldings than in mares. If a veterinary 
surgeon is available, he should be called in promptly when this 
disease appears. 

In a conversation with Dr. Macbeth of this city, (Battle Creek,) 
on the foregoing disease, he informed the writer that he had 
treated a great many cases during his practice, with success ; that 
a short time before, directly after a severe storm, which was the 
cause of keeping the animals idle while kept on their usual 
amount of food, he had six cases, as a consequence, in one 
Week, all of which made good recovery. One case had been down 
forty-eight hours, another some eighteen hours, and a third about 
twelve hours before being called. This success induced me to 
make the request that he would give me, in the fewest words, the 
outline of his understanding of the disease, with his treatment, 
which I give here as dictated by him : — 

" This disease is generally common to horses that are worked 
hard, then stand still with regular feed, and when put to work, or 
when driven, perhaps not going more than a quarter to half a railej 



926 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 

begin to sweat profusely, and in a few minutes afterward show 
great weakness in the back, acting as if having lost power to move 
the hind legs ; in fact, appearing stiff all over. If not helped 
quickly, the horse is liable to fall down. 

" The Cause of the disease is the horse making more blood, 
while idle, than the system can appropriate. When put to work, 
the muscles in the lumbar region become congested, and the conse- 
quence is the horse loses power to raise or control his hind parts. 
If treated properly, will usually regain his strength in fi'om twenty- 
four to thirty- six hours. 

''Treatment. — First give a sharp cathartic, also apply counter 
irritants over the region of the kidneys, using sheep-skin or 
counter irritants; also use the catheter. Give small doses of spirits 
of nitre with 10 to 15 drops aconite added from four to six hours 
apart. When fever subsides, give nervine tonics with strychnine 
in one-half grain doses, or powdered nux vomica in one-half drachm 
doses, in from two to four hours apart. If not very serious, about 
four hours apart. 

" If the horse is not able to rise, must not let him lie on one 
side longer than three hours at a time. These cases are nervous 
and must not be excited. They must be handled very gentty and 
walked around very carefully." 

As I am about to hand this article to the printers, I receive a 
TJ. S. Veterinary Journal for December, 1883, published in Chi- 
cago, 111., in which I find an excellent essay on this subject read 
by W. L. Williams, V. S., before the Illinois State Veterinary 
Association, and as an additional aid to successful treatment, I 
copy that advised by him : — 

" The great essential in treatment is careful nursing, without 
which success is rarely possible in severe cases. As soon as the 
first symptoms appear, keep the animal as quiet as possible. If 
able to stand comfortably, have him stand as still as possible ; if 
recumbent, procure him a good bed of straw at once, and by as 
quiet means as possible try to prevent &ny effort at getting up. 
This can usually be done readily by having a steady man hold the 
head, or he can be assisted by another man keeping the lower fore 
leg flexed against the chest by means of a strap upon the foot. 
Should the animal be standing, but growing more and more liable 
to fall, lose no time in getting him into the most comfortable place 
at hand. When already down, unless the weather be inclement or 
the location unfavorable, do not attempt to move him for two or 
three hours, when he should be removed to a well-bedded, comfort- 
able loose-box or shed. We can with little difficulty roll him on a 
low sled or a farm gate, when a good span of horses will readily 
drag him to the stall door, and five or six men will soon place him 
where desired. Pass the catheter early, and keep it up twice or 
thrice daily so long as the animal remains recumbent. Eemov§ 



PAEALYSIS. 927 

the shoes from the fore feet to prevent bruising of the chest and 
elbows while lying; a,pply hot cloths or slightly stimulating lini- 
ment to the loins and quarters. Keep the bowels open by moder- 
ate cathartics and enemas, and thus assist the kidneys in execrat- 
ing the effete materials from the blood. The kidneys usually act 
freely enough, but should they not do so, diuretics should not be 
given during the early stages, as they Avould most likely increase 
the already excessive congestion. Allow plenty of fresh water and 
good, nutritious, easily digested food, if the animal will eat. 

" After the second or third day, should there be great debility, 
vegetable tonics with alcoholic stimulants should be given in mod- 
eration. The animal should be turned from side to side three or 
four times daily, but on no account urged to get up, nor should 
slings ever be used, as they only aggravate the case and retard the 
recovery. When the animal is fit to be up, he will get up alone 
without urging. 

" Should some degree of paralysis remain after two or three 
weeks, nux vomica conjoined with diuretics are to be used. In 
mild cases, a gentle cathartic, with a day or two of rest, is sufficient. 
The progress is favorable, most cases making a rapid and complete 
recovery. In the more severe cases, if the animal becomes quiet 
after 12 to 30 hours, with regular, not much quickened pulse, the 
appetite returns, and the animal lies a large part of the time ujjon 
his chest ; recovery may be looked for, although the animal may be 
unable to rise for five or six days. 

" When the animal continues restless and weak, will not lie upon 
the chest except when held, refuses food almost entirely, the pulse 
becomes weaker and quicker, with considerable elevation of tem- 
perature, the case is to be considered a very grave one." 

Pakalysis. 

" The horse is taken suddenly, falls down, and is unable to rise. 
Sensation almost completely lost in posterior extremities, l^o in- 
crease in the pulsation ; temperature will be found at 102 to 103. 
The usual remedy is to give a sharp cathartic, (see "Physicking") 
and have the animal placed in slings. Next apply stimulating em- 
brocations to the spine, and give one of the following balls every 
eight hours : — 

1 oz. alcoholic extract belladonna, 
4 oz. bromide potass, 

Liquorice root sufl&cient to make into six balls for the first stage. 

" This treatment should be persisted in for the first four days, 
thoroughly bathing the animal's hind quarters with mustard water, 
and keeping up the stimulants to the spine until sore. The appli- 
cation of a fresh sheep skin or a hot salt bath to the loins would be 
still better. 

" There is another difficulty which resembles spinal paralysis, 
namely Azotaria. (Treatment for which is given under that head.) 
As in the first case, the animal drops, and loses all power to get up. 



928 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

In spinal paralysis there is a loss of sensation and a constant drib- 
bling of urine, and involuntary foecal passage. Temperature 102 to 
103. jN"o perceptible change of color in urine. In Azotaria the 
animal has suddenly partial loss of sensation, the urine and foeces 
not voided. No perceptible i-ise in temperature. The urine, if 
withdrawn from the patient, will be of a coffee brown color. The 
animal is uneasy struggling and sweating over the flanks, and in 
great pain. 

" This difficulty is usually found in short-necked horses that are 
fed too much grain. Scarcely ever find horses in moderate condi- 
tion subject to it." — Dr. Meyer. 

Tetanus, or Lockjaw. 

This disease is wholly of a nervous character, being a peculiar 




Fig. 802. — The symptoms of lockjaw. 

irritability of the nervous system, inducing constant spasmodic 
contraction of the voluntary, and after a time the involuntary, 
muscles, and is very fatal unless treated skillfully and carefully. 
It is more common in the extreme South, than in the north ; and 
is more liable to occur during the warm months than in the cold 
ones. 

Symptoms. — In the first stage there is a disinclination to 
move ; then the tail becomes erect and quivers, the ears set back, 
and the conjunctiva is thrown over the pupil of the eye, and the 
head is elevated, with the muzzle and facial muscles contracted, 
the nostrils open, and the whole expression of the countenance 
haggard and excited, evincing great suffering. (A good idea of 
which is given by Fig. 802.) 



TETANUS, OE LOCKJAW. 929 

As the disease advances, the muscles all over the neck and 
body become stiff and rigid, and the legs have the appearance of 
of a four-footed stool. The animal has little or no power to move. 

For the first few days the teeth remain apart, but as the dis- 
ease advances, the muscles of the jaw become so contracted as to 
bring them close together. Hence the name locked jaw. 

The bowels are constipated, the urine scanty, and passed with 
difiiculty. The pulse is usually not very high, but is easily 
raised by excitement ; he is very nervous, starts and quivers 
when any one approaches him. His appetite remains good, and 
from inability to feed, his hunger amounts to starvation; he will 
make every effort to suck up gruel or fluids, when, from the fix- 
idity of the jaws, he is un- 
able to masticate. The 
breathing, at first not much 
altered, becomes difficult 
and loud. The symptoms 
generally reach their cli- 
max about the third or 
fourth day. 

The Causes of this dis- 
ease are numerous. It com- 
monly occurs in conse- '^^^- 803.— A test for lockjaw, 
quence of wounds, when it is called traumatic tetanus; in which 
case it is not developed until about the period the wound is con- 
sidered healed; it may occur from causes not apparent, when it is 
distinguished as idiopathic tetanus ; but it is generally produced 
from a wounded nerve or bunch of nerves, 'pricking the tail, and 
very often from docking, punctured wounds in the feet from glass 
or nails, and sometimes from severe exposure to cold, and " I have 
known one case to occur from fright," — (Somerville.) Worms 
and other intestinal irritation sometimes give rise to it. The pulse 
is almost normal for the first few days. As the disease advances, 
the pulse quickens, and the animal is compelled to stand on his 
legs until death, if it terminates fatally. If favorably, a relaxa- 
tion of the muscles begins from the fifth to the seventh day. 

Treatment. — First, as the disease is of a nervous character, 
quietness is of the greatest importance. The animal should be 
removed to an isolated place, or cool, dark, roomy loose-box, by 

59 




930 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

himself, and the cause of the disease found. If from docking, the 
next joint should be taken off the tail. If from a wound in the 
foot, the wound should be opened up and made new, and an ap- 
plication of digestive ointment inserted, so as to produce a healthy- 
flow of matter. Or, as soon as opened up, diligently foment with 
warm water, after which cover with belladonna, and apply poul- 
tices of linseed meal and opium or hyoscyamus to soothe and allay 
the irritation, and give promptly at the same time a strong pur- 
gative, such as 

7 drachms aloes (Barbadoes), 
2 drachms calomel, 
given in solution or ball, as most convenient. 

Injections of alkaline solution of aloes should also be given, as 
it is of the greatest importance to get the bowels open early. 
Belladonna in half-drachm doses should be given four or five 
times a day. If it cannot be given otherwise, place it up in the 
cheek, when he will suck it up. 

He must be kept perfectly quiet, and the box cool and dark, 
no one being allowed to go near him but the attendants, and they 
must work about him noiselessly. A newly-flayed sheepskin 
should be laid over the loins, and well covered up to excite per- 
spiration. Very high authorities claim that blisters and other 
irritating treatment must be avoided. He must be treated as in 
a nervous fever, while average good authorities advise having the 
spine rubbed well with a strong liniment such as one part aqua 
ammonia, two parts of sweet-oil ; to be repeated daily until the 
back becomes sore. He should be allowed all the nutriment he 
will take; and when he cannot eat, sloppy drinks of linseed tea, 
barley water, well boiled oat meal gruel, etc., should be frequently 
placed within his reach. 

It may run its course in four or five days, or it may continue 
for one or two weeks. It very often proves fatal. 

Dr. Macbeth, of this city, who has had excellent success in the 
management of this disease, informs the writer that he has re- 
cently had two very severe cases, both idiopathic. The worst, 
owned by W. M. Merritt, of this city, had run four days, with 
jaws entirely fixed, before being called. His treatment is, first 
sharp cathartic, aloes, with enemas to encourage action of bowels, 
with half-drachm doses of belladonna, in some cases even more ; 



EABIES, OE MADJJ^ESS. 



931 



in this case, being a very desperate one, he gave drachm doses of 
solid extract, every three to four hours, with counter irritation 
over the spine, and generous nourishment as described. 

He of course found great difficulty in giving the medicine, be- 
ing compelled to push the aloes up into the mouth with a piece of 
stick, until a sufficient amount was taken up to produce a free 
action of the bowels. 

Rabies, or Mti^DNEss. 

This dreadful malady is, providentially, of rare occurrence, 
and does not arise spontaneously in horses, but is usually the ef- 




FiG. 804. — Symptom of rabies. 

feet of the bite of a " mad dog." 

Symptoms. — The attack is usually sudden, as it is severe, 
and seldom extends beyond the third day. It usually appears 
from two to eight weeks after the animal has been bitten. Some- 
times it comes on gradually; he is observed to be dull, and his man- 
ner is peculiar. The other animals in the barn-yard seem afraid of 
him ; he is observed to snap and bite at poultry, pigs, sheep, or 
other horses when roused, then relapses into his dull state again. 
In a short time his eyes become staring, wild, and excited; and 
he runs at anything that comes in his way. 

At other times it comes on suddenly, with all the iurj of gen- 
uine madness ; he becomes wild and frantic, bites and tears at 
everything within his reach; he rears up, kicks and plunges. 



032 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

presently gets down, gnaws at his own legs or sides, snaps at 
anything that is pushed towards him, gets up and runs with 
open mouth at any one who goes near him ; palsy of the hind 
legs is apt to supervene ; thirst is excessive ; and the act of swal- 
lowing apparently difficult. 

Treatment. — According to all medical authorities, curative 
treatment is hopeless, and they advise that the important point is to 
prevent it. When an animal is known to have been bitten by a 
mad dog, a string should at once be tightly tied above the injury, 
and the bitten part cut out or burned with the cautery or nitric 
acid, and some stimulant, such as good brandy, freely given ; the 
same treatment is applicable to all animals. 

A RECIPE FOR ITS CURE. 

When in Southern Pennsylvania a few years ago, it became 
known to me that there was a recipe that had been used in that 
neighborhood for years, which was claimed to be a certain cure 
for hydrophobia. It had been kept a great secret by the man 
who used it, who, upon dying, gave it to his sons. These going 
into the army, one of them was seriously wounded, and, with his 
brother, who was sick with fever, was confined to the hospital at 
Washington. Their condition being serious, the citizens of the 
town, Hanover, valuing the recipe so highly, and fearing it 
would be lost in the event of their death, appointed a committee 
to go to Washington and obtain the recipe, when it was pub- 
lished in the county papers. Learning of its value, I made a 
great effort at considerable expense to obtain it, and was only 
able to get it by paying for it liberally. 

Some time afterward, in stating the facts to Mr. Warren, he 
claimed to have a remedy that he knew to be specific for hydro- 
phobia ; that he had used and seen it used for over twenty years, 
upon a variety of cases with perfect success ; but having pledged 
himself not to reveal the secret, I could not obtain it of him. He 
finally said if I would let him see mine, if it were like his, he 
would say so. I read it to him, when he admitted it was an 
exact transcript of his. This added greatly to its value in my 
estimation, as Mr. Warren is among the most honest, conscientious 
men I ever met. The recipe I here give, with Mr. Warren's 
statements of the facts at the close: — 



BABIES, OE MADNESS. 933 

"Dr. Stoy's Celebrated Cure for Hydrophobia. — The fol- 
lowing remedy for hydrophobia, published in the Eager stown 
Torch Light, of 1830, by "Humanitas," we know to be genuine. 
The gentleman who purchased it from the late Mr. Kreps, is still 
living, and his son, for Avhom it was purchased, who had been bit- 
ten by a rabid dog, and exhibited strong symptoms of hydropho- 
bia, is also living, thirty-seven years having elapsed since the 
event. We know, says the Torch Light, both gentlemen very 
well, and the manner in which the recipe was made public. It 
should, therefore, by all means be preserved by all those into whose 
hands this paper may fall. 

" Kecipa. — Take of the red chick-weed (Joerba anageiis ruher^ 
that has beed dried, one handful, pour two quarts of good beer on 
it, and boil it in a new earthen pot (the pot must be covered with 
a close lid until half the liquor boils away,) it must be boiled over 
a slow fire; the vessel in which it is boiled must be kept very 
clean, and used for no other purpose. When the herb is boiled 
enough, it must be strained through a clean cloth and well 
squeezed, so that the substance may be all taken out of it ; then 
add to the decoction two drachms of the best threriaca venti. It 
must be well dissolved and mixed with the decoction. Of the 
above decoction, give to a man or beast in the morning, fasting, the 
following proportions : A man of strong constitution must take a 
pint of it, and that at one time if possible, if not at once, take it at 
short intervals, but if taken at one draught, it is best. If there 
should be any symptoms of madness, the medicine must be taken 
two or three mornings in succession ; but if actual symptoms of 
madness should exist, a larger portion of the herbs should be added 
to the said quantity of beer. A woman should take less of the 
medicine than a man, say about 3 or 3^ gills ; for children the 
medicine must be regulated according to their age and constitution. 
It must be likewise observed that children can bear more of it than 
grown persons in proportion. 

" The mother or person that nurses the child should take an 
extra portion ; if the child would receive one or two spoonfuls of 
the medicine, it would be sufficient. A horse should be given one 
pint ; a cow, 20 tablespoonfuls ; a heifer or dog, according to age, 
size, and strength, the medicine to be taken warm and well- 
shaken. It must be taken in the morning, and fast must not be 
broken for 3 or 4 hours after taking it. ij'o cold or fresh water 
must be taken, otherwise serious consequences might arise. On 
the day of taking the medicine, the person must abstain from 
spoon victuals, particularly from milk or warm beer. A beast must 
not be watered on that day ; and a person must for two weeks ab- 
stain from the following eatables ; viz., meat and pork of all kinds, 
cabbage, peas, beans, fish, or water fowls. If a person is bitten 
through the skin, the wound must be scratched with a chip until it 
bleeds, and washed with some of the decoction ; this may be done 
for two or three days. If the wound requires dressing, make a 
plaster of the threriaca venti (venice treacle) twice a day until the 



934 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

wound is healed. Observe that before dressing, the wound must 
be washed clean with the decoction. After having made use of 
the medicine, the person must put on clean linen, and change his 
clothes and bedding, and it must not be worn until perfectly clean. 
All straw that a beast has lain on must be burnt, and the stable 
cleansed." 

"In 1862, I bought the same recipe as the above from John 
Emory Esq., residing near Baden Co., Waterloo, Ont., Canada, 
with conditions of secrecy until Mr. Emory himself should publish 
it. But finding that Prof Magner has the same recipe, and is 
about to publish it for the benefit of the public, I feel myself re- 
lieved from the obligation of secrecy, and for the benefit of any 
who may need the medicine, I cheerfully add my testimony to its 
efficacy. I have given it both to persons and animals that had 
been bitten by rabid dogs with unfailing success, and Mr. Emory 
has been noted for many years in the central counties of Ontario 
for his success in curing those who had been bitten. I also met a 
regular physician in Reading, Besks Co., Penn., who had the same 
recipe. He prized it highly, and kept it as a secret. The public 
may rely upon it with perfect confidence as a remedy for the bite 
of any rabid animal. If the recipe could not be otherwise obtained, 
1 consider it well worth |500,00. Alexander Warren, 

Baptist Minister, 
Acton, Halton Co., 
Ontario. 
" Mountain Park, April 9, 1881." 

The following, for the cure of hydrophobia, which has been 
published in the Country Gentleman, seems so good that I give it 
a place: — 

" I can give some facts which may be of use to somebody, 
thereby saving life. The time between the biting of an animal by 
a mad dog, and showing signs of hydrophobia is not less than 
nine days, but may be nine months. After the animal has become 
rabid, a bite or scratch with the teeth upon a person, or slobber 
coming in contact with a sore or raw place, would produce hydro- 
phobia as soon as if he had been bitten by a mad dog. Hydropho- 
bia can be prevented, and I will give what is known to be an 
infallible remedy, if promptly administered, for man and beast. A 
dose for a horse or cow should be about four times as great as for 
a person. It is not too late to give medicine any time before the 
spasms come on. 

"The first dose for a person is 1^ ounces of elecampane root, 
bruised, put in a pint of new milk, reduced to one-half by boiling, 
then taking all at one dose in the morning, fasting until afternoon, 
or at least a very light diet after several hours have elapsed. The 
second dose same as first, except take two ounces of the root; third 
dose the same as last; to be taken every other day. Three doses 
are all that is needed, and there need be no fear. This, I know 



STEINGHALT. 935 

from my own experience, and know of a number of other cases 
where it has been entirely successful. This is no guesswork. 
Those persons I allude to were bitten by their own dogs that were 
bitten by rabid dogs, and were penned up to see if they would go 
mad. They did go mad and did bite the persons. 

"This remedy has been used in and about Philadelphia for forty 
years and longer, with great success, and is known as the Grood- 
man remedy. I am acquainted with a physician who told me he 
knew of its use for more than thirty years, but never knew of any 
case that failed where it was properly and timely administered. 
Among other cases he mentioned one where a number of cows had 
been bitten by a mad dog. 

" To half of this number they administered this remedy, to the 
other not. The latter all died of hydrophobia, while those that 
took the elecampane and the milk showed no signs of that disease." 

Steinghalt. 

This is a peculiar jerking or pulling up of the hind legs when 
walking or trotting, familiar to every one. It is most severe dur- 
ing cold weather when the horse is led out of the stable, also after 
a hard drive, and is much better when driven and warmed up. 
Many horses that have but a slight touch of it may move off 
showing so little evidence of it as to escape notice. If suspected, 
back the horse up hill, especially after standing awhile, or when 
cool, and he will show it most clearly. 

It is claimed that colts suffering from worms, and horses suf- 
fering from derangement of the digestive organs, will show some 
temporary jerking of one or both hind legs, from which they re- 
covered under good keeping and mineral tonics. The writer has 
never known a case of .stringhalt to be cured. There are a great 
many theories and pretended cures, but I know of none worthy 
of mention. 

Thumps, or Spasmodic Action of the Diaphragm, 

Commonly called thumps, is caused by severe and long-con- 
tinued driving and hard work. Horses of a nervous tempera- 
ment having too much cold water given to drink on a bold 
morning, nervous irritation, severe work or excitement from any 
(jause, may excite this trouble. 

Symptoms. — A sudden jerking or twitching of the muscles of 
the sides and flanks; pulse wiry, quick, and low; more or less 
fever; extremities natural. 



936 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



Treatment. — This disease being of a purely spasmodic char- 
acter, but in this case wholly of a nervous nature, bleeding must 
be omitted, and must be treated wholly by giving spasmodic rem- 
edies. Give assafoetida, in a dose of from 1 to 3 ounces of the 
tincture, mixed in a half pint of water. Given as a drench, will 
stop it almost instantly. 




Fig. 804. — Diaphragm. 

1, 1, The two portions of the right pillar; 2, Left pillar; 3, Tendons of the 
pillars; 4, 4, Peripheral muscular portion; 6, PQ.sterior vena cava; 7, Oesophagus 
passing through the opening in the right pillar ; 8, Posterior aorta between the two 
pillars; 12, Section of a lumbar vertebra. 



If necessary, the medicine may be repeated in two hours. 
Keep the horse well clothed, and keep all exciting causes away 
from him. The bowels should be kept loose and regular, by giv- 
ing bran mashes and moderate exercise. ^ 



LYMPHANGITIS, ETC. 937 

Lymphangitis. — Weed. — Monday Morning Leg. 

This disease is attributed to high feeding and insufficient ex- 
ercise, generally working horses, those having worked steadily 
are suddenly kept standing in the stable for a few days, given all 
they can eat, when on a morning the animal will be found lame. 
This usually occurs in dray horses, the owner comes in late Sat- 
urday night ; feeds. On Sunday, gives an extra allowance, 
enough to last all day ; the horse eats all. Perhaps the owner 
does not come again until the following day, when he finds his 
horse is unable to back out of the stall. For this reason the 
disease is called by some Monday morning leg. It usually affects 
one of the hind legs, and is an inflammation of the lymphatics. 
The left leg is usually affected. 

The leg is swollen, is favored and held from the ground ; the 
swelling extends on the inner side from the foot up to the body. 
There is heat, and great tenderness to the touch. Horses that 
have once been attacked by lymphangitis are liable to a recur- 
rence time after time, until the limb assumes permanently an 
enlarged condition. 

Treatment. — Clothe the animal warmly and give a moderate 
purge, and bathe the affected limb with very hot salt water 3 or 
4 times a day. After each bathing, apply the following lotion : — 

2 ounces tincture arnica, 

1 pint water. 

Feed no oats or stimulating food, simply bran mashes, to 
which add plenty of salt ; after the third or fourth day feed one of 
the following powders morning and night. 

2 ounces iodine of potass. , 

1^ ounce bicarbonate of potass. , ^ 

3 ounces powdered gentian root. 
Mix and make into 10 powders. 

In 8 to 10 days, when the symptoms have disappeared, if any 
swelling remains, there being no pain, apply for a few times an 
ointment. 

2 ounces mercurial ointment, 

1^ ounce iodine ointment, 

4 ounces vasaline. 
Make into a salve. 



938 DISEASES AND TllElE TEEATMENT. 

The Peeitoneum. 

The peritoneum is the thin sei'ous membrane which lines the 
cavity of the belly, and is reflected over the organs contained 
withia it, forming a complete covering to them. It also suspends 
and retains them in their proper relative positions by its folds and 
reflections, vulgarly known as the caul (omenta). This mem- 
brane also secretes a delicate serous fluid, for the purpose of lubri- 
cating the surface, so as to prevent friction during the ceaseless 
motions of the viscera. It is also the matrix over which the 
blood-vessels are distributed to the organs contained in the belly ; 
hence the inflammations of these oi-gans are apt to extend along 
this vascular-investing membrane, constituting peritonitis. 

Pekitonitis. 

Peritonitis occurs in two forms, acute and chronic. Acute 
peritonitis, as a primary disease, is not very common in the horse. 

Causes, — ^It is usually caused by external violence, as from 
being hooked by a cow's horn, or staked in jumping a fence; it 
also sometimes follows castration, operations for hernia, and other 
operations involving a division of it, and occasionally from expos- 
ure to damp and cold, especially when heated. . 

Symptoms. — It usually sets in with shivering fits, general 
uneasiness in the region of the abdomen ; quick, short breathing; 
pulse quick, small, and wiry ; tenderness on pressure on belly ; 
lying down and rising frequently ; he moves about uneasily in 
his box, and is very feverish ; the bowels are costive, and he 
strains occasionally. The pain is not so violent as in colic or in- 
flammation of the bowels, for which it is apt to be mistaken. 

Treatment. — Relieve the bowels by injections, give a brisk 
purgative, as six drachms of aloes, with a drachm of calomel. 
Drachm doses of extract of belladonna or hyoscya,mus, should be 
given every hour, for three or four doses; or tincture of aconite, from 
fifteen to twenty drops every two hours, in a little cold water, till 
the fever is subdued. Apply smart counter-irritation to the whole 
surface of the belly by rubbing in a strong hquid blister. The 
treatment of peritonitis does not differ very materially from that 
qf enteritis, inflammatiorL of. the bowels, which see. 



DISEASES OP THE STOMACH. 939 

The Stomach. 

The stomach is that pouch or bag into which the food passes 
from the gullet, and in which it undergoes the primary and essen- 
tial changes in the process of digestion. The stomach of the horse 
is a comparatively small organ; its shape is generally compared 
to the air-bag of a pair of bag-pipes. It has two openings, the 
cardiac, into which the food enters from the gullet, and the py- 
loric, through which it passes into the bowels, or gut. Its inner 
surface is lined by two distinct membranes, a cuticular and a 
villous. The foi^mer lines the cardiac portion, and is white and 
wrinkled; the latter covers the pyloric, and is yellowish red, soft 
and velvety to the touch. The latter is the true digestive stomach. 
In it the gastric juice is secreted, and the essential process of 
chymiiication, or the formation of the food into chyme, goes on, 
the former being merely for macerating and further triturating 
the masticated food. 

Indigestion. 

indigestion in one form or another is very common in the 
horse. It occurs in two forms, which may be distinguished as 
acidity of the stomach, or heartburn, and acute indigestion, or 
total arrestment of digestion. 

Acidity of. the Stomach. 

Acidity of the stomach arises from bad food and irregular 
feeding. 

Symptoms. — The animal is observed to lose condition ; the 
skin is dusty and unthrifty; he is continually poking and pick- 
ing among the litter, licking out the corners of the manger, occa- 
sionally stretching out the nose, and pouting the upper lip. If 
turned out, he licks earth or sand, and evinces a depraved appe- 
tite ; at work he is easily sweated; his bowels are irregular, the 
dung being light-colored and glazed. 

Treatment, — Change the feed, give sweet, well-cured hay, a 
few bran-mashes, and gentle walking exercise. Give him the 
following laxative ball : — 

6 drachms Barbadoes aloes, 
2 drachms ground ginger, 
2 drachms carbonate of soda. 
Make into a ball with molasses or lard. 



940 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT . 

Place a lump of rock salt in his manger, and give a little car- 
bonate of soda or magnesia twice a day in the feed. When re- 
covery begins, give him tonics for some time, with gentle exercise. 
If he per,sists in devouring the litter, muzzle him up for a few 
days. This, if neglected, is apt to run on to diabetes or jaupis. 

Acute Indigestion. 

Acute indigestion is very common in this country, especially 
in the .spring, from the continuous hard work, and necessarily 
liberal feeding. It is usually induced by overfeeding, that is, 
eating too much at a time, more especially when the animal ha-i 
been fatigued and hungry. It sometimes occurs from his break- 
ing loose in the night, and gorging himself at the corn-bui. An- 
other frequent cause is overloading the stomach with clover or 
green feed when wet ; this often induces violent and fatal 
indigestion. 

Symptoms. — Digestion may be arrested, either by " the food 
undergoing no change, forming a dangerous load, or running rap- 
idly to frightful fermentation." In the former case the animal is 
dull and stupid, the pulse is slow, and the breathing oppressed ; 
he is stiff, and inflammation of the feet, or acute founder, is apt 
to set in. If he have access to water, it speedily sets up fermen- 
tation, gas being rapidly evolved ; the stomach is greatly dis- 
tended, the belly swollen, colicky jDains set in, he rolls about in 
great agony, looking wistfully to his flank, kicking his belly with 
his feet ; he tosses about in despair, the bowels being unmoved^ 
He gets up and down freqxiently, the sweat rolls ofi" him in 
streams, and in many cases death puts an end to his suffering in 
from four to six or eight hours, caused by rupture of the stomach 
or bowels, or violent inflammation of the intestines. 

Treatment. — It is more easily prevented than cured, by sim- 
ply attending to the following rules: Never let a horse g«t too 
hungry ; never give him too much at a time ; never put hun 
to work on a full stomach; and never let him drink too freely 
after eating, and we will seldom see this fatal disease. 

Treatment must be prompt to be effectual. The following 
drench will be found useful: — 

8 drachms Barbadoes aloes, 
1 fluid ounce liquor ammonia. 
Or, 2 fluid ounces spirits of turpentine. 
Dissolve the aloes with a little carbonate of soda, in nearly a quart of 
warm water, and add the other. 



THE FOOT. 



941 



Rub the belly well, and apply cloths wrung out of boiling 
water diligently to it. Give copious injections of soap and 
water ; or a mUd infusion of tobacco or tobacco-smoke. If no 
relief is given in one or two hours, give 'at intervals of an hour, 
two drachms carbonate of ammonia, | ounce ginger (powdered), 
in gruel. 

Advantage will sometimes be found from giving copious 
drenches of fluids to liquify the contents of the stomach, and 
assist in removing it. 

The Foot. — Pricking in Shoeing, Stepping on 

Nails Glass, etc. 

The foot is made up of the coffin-bone, (os pedis,) the lower 
end of the small pas- 
tern-bone ; ( oscoro- 
nse,) and the navi- 
cular-bone (os navi- 
culare,) with the ten- 
don of the flexor 
pedis, which passes 
over the navicular- 
bone, and is inserted 
in the sole of the 
coffin-bone, a variety 
of illustrations o f 
which I give. The surface of the coffin-bone is covered by lami- 
nae or thin plates, running from above downwards, fitting into 
correspondiag plates on the inner surface of the hoof. The sole is 
also covered by a sensitive structure which is villous, that is, 
presenting elevations and depressions, which fit into reciprocal 
horny villse on the sole of the hoof. At the back part of the sole 
we have the sensitive or fatty frog, covered in a similar man- 
ner by the horny frog. These, with the coronary ligament (which 
occupies the groove in the upper margin of the wall of the hoof, 
and from which the hoof grows), and the coronary frog-band, 
blood-vessels, nerves, and lymphatics, constitute the foot of the 
horse. (To make this more plain, I include drawings of differ- 
ent views of the hoof; reference can also be made to illustrations 
in Shoeing.) 




Fig. 805. 



-The horse as he usually rests the foot 
when lame. 



U2 



DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 




Fig. 806.— Showing 
bones of the foot. 



Accidents and injuries of the foot constitute the principal 

bruises from stepping on stones, sharp bodies, treads, etc., besides 
causes of lameness. It is liable to injury 
from various causes, as occasionally partici- 
pating in constitutional derangement; but by 
far the greatest amount of injury arises, 
directly or indirectly, from shoeiug. 

Sometimes, from carelessness, a nail pen- 
etrates the sensitive part of the foot (usually 
called the quick). Sometimes the nail itself 
does not penetrate, but is driven so close as 
to cause the wall, in its course, to press on 
and bruise the quick, (something like Fig. 
807,) giving rise to inflammation, and usually 
terminating in suppuration. To illustrate, a 
fine horse that had been lame for a number 
of days was recently brought in from the 
country to be examined by the veterinary 
surgeon here, who informed the writer that 

upon investigation, he found that the lameness was caused by 

three nails being driven too near or into the quick. 
Serious trouble is also liable to be caused 

by driving the nails deep and clinching 

them tightly, as this will bend the nails 

more or less inward upon the soft parts, 

causing a binding, uncomfortable pressure 

that produces a soreness, and sometimes 

very serious inflammation. 

Symptoms. — Lameness may appear in 

a day or two, sometimes not for a week. 

The foot is found to be hot and tender, 

and the least tap with the hammer causes 

pain; in moving, the animal sets the foot 

down so as to throw the pressure oif the ■^"'- *^'^''- 

tender part, and when standing he will rest the foot. Sometimes, 

the leg swells considerably ; the swelling is sometimes painful, 

and is very apt to mislead the inexperienced. 

Treatment. — Remove the shoe, and having with the hammer 

or pincers discovered the faulty nail, thin the sole around it, and 




THE FOOT. 



943 



with a fine drawing-knife follow 
the course of the nail till the mat- 
ter is evacuated; make a free vent 
for it, and immerse the foot in a 
warm poultice for a day or two. 
When the symptoms subside, the shoe 
may be applied, and the sole filled 
with tow and tar, or Friar's bal- 
sam, tincture of myrrh, etc., re- 
tained by cross slips or a leather 
sole, care being taken not to bruise 
the sole. The crust at the injured 
part should not rest on the shoe. 
(For farther details, see page 667 in Fig- 80S, — The frog removed from 
Shoeing ") *^^ ^°°^ ^^^^' ^^^^ ^^ maceration. 





Fig. 809. — A dried hoof with frog removei From Oamgee, on Lameness. 



944 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

If the nails are driven so deep as to bind, which, as before 
stated, is a very common occurrence, particularly in feet with 
thin hoofs, the first thing to do is to remove the naOs; if much 
inflammation, poultice until relieved ; then let the shoe extend 
farther out under the crust, and drive smaller nails, using care 
not to drive deep. 

If a nail has been driven into the foot, get the horse to the 
stable as quick as you can, and take off the shoe. If not done before, 




Fig. SIO. — A dried hoof from a diseased foot, with frog and half the sole 
removed. — ^From Oamgee, on Lameness. 

remove the nail, glass, or whatever it is, from the foot carefuUy. 
See that no part remains, and remove a little of the hoof from 
around the opening. Drop a few drops of Friar's balsam or com- 
pound tincture of benzoin into the orifice, both of which can be 
obtained in almost any drug stoi'e. If this is not obtainable, use 
the simple digestive ointment (given under head of Cuts), and 
cover the foot with a large flax-seed poultice. If the injury is at 
all severe, give a sharp dose of physic, and let the animal stand 
quiet. The object is to keep down inflammation. JH^o hot oils or 
anything stinnulating is to he applied. If there is much in- 



POOT-LAMENBSS. 945 

flammation, omit digestive dressing until after it is reduced by 
poulticing, when dress with digestives. 

There is liable to be tenderness if the sole should strike the 
ground afterwards, as there may be inflammation of the perios- 
teum, to relieve which, put on a high-heeled shoe, and blister 
around the coronet. The sole is sometimes bruised by the shoe 
pressing upon it, causing much inflammation and lameness. Take 
off* the shoe, poultice for twenty-four hours or more; fit the shoe 
so as to remove all pressure from the sole; if sore yet, continue 
the poultice; if matter is formed, treat as you would any simple 
ulcer, with a healing astringent. Several good preparations are 
given in another part of this work. 

Foot-Lameness.* 

" Symptoms. — Horse goes gradually sore, walking tender 
either behind or before. As a rule comes in one foot ; if in the 
bind foot, tries to put the heel down first. ISTot much fever in the 
feet. No apparent cause, hard to locate the trouble. The only 
diagnosis is by tapping the Avail of the foot which will give a 
hollow sound. It is all due to want of cell-growth or nutrition of 
born-cells which will cause the wall or hoof to separate from the 
true foot. At the start the horse may travel sore or tender, grow- 
ing worse gradually for two or three months ; finally the horse be- 
comes very lame. There is no fever; no pain by pressure or 
hammering. The only point noticeable is by the hollow sound of 
the wall when hammered upon. 

"Ey examining the sole of the foot at the point where the sole 
and wall are united, by pricking there with a jjrobo a granulating 
substance will be found — little dry fibers of horn, which are the 
dead horn-cells. These can be found and pricked clear up to the 
coronary band, without causing any feehng to the horse. 

" Treatment. — Clean out the foot properly, and pour nitric 
acid into the crevice made until all the dead part is cleaned out. 
Then j)ut on a plain shoe so as to protect the sole and wall ; fill out 
the bottom with oakum and hot tar; next fire all around the coro- 
nary band, the same as for ring-bone, and apply a sharp blister, 
and allow the horse to stand five or six weeks. If by the third 
week there is no sign of healthy horn, the blister may again be 
applied. But there is usually after three or four weeks a good 
noticeable growth of healthy horn. 

" After this, but little more can be done than to exercise the 
horse moderately, until the new growth of horn-structure has 
grown down." 

* Dictated by Dr. Charles A. Meyer. 60 



946 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

Seedy Toe. 

This is the name given to a dry, mealy secretion of horn, 
which is sometimes seen to take place between the homy and 
sensitive sole at the toe. It is seldcgn seen in this country, owing 
to clips being- not much used. 

Causes. — It is generally caused by large clips being ham- 
mered firmly on the toe, bending in the hoof, and bruising the 
part. 

Symptoms. — Pain and lameness, with heat and tenderness, 
on pressure at the toe. The horn is dry and mealy, and matter 
is generally found at the bottom of it. 

In bad cases, horny processes are found pressing inward, pro- 
ducing absorption of the coffin-bone, with a tendency for fungus 
growths to shoot up, producing a very troublesome disease. 

Treatment,— In a simple case, open it up, cut down to the 
bottom, and poultice for a few days, when the shoe may be ap- 
plied, removing the pressure by cutting down the crust, and nil it 
up with tow and hot tar, when it well soon get well. 

In bad cases, with fungus and bony absorption going on, free 
incisions must be made ; sometimes it will be necessary to cut 
through the wall. Caustics must be freely used, such as muriate 
of antimony, dilute hydrochloric acid, etc., with pressure judic- 
iously applied ; the process may be arrested, and the part healed. 

When there is want of cell-gi'owth, with a separation of the 
wall from the inner structux'e, which is very common in horses 
that have been driven hard, or been partially foundered, an- 
other high author advises the following, which is practically the 
same as that given for foot-lameness: — 

" Treatment. — Thorough and repeated blistering around the 
coronet. JSTcxt pour boiling hot tar or even corrosive substance, 
such as muriatic acid, butter of antimony, spirits of salts, etc., 
into the cavity formed. 

" AVhenever there is a separation of the wall from the sole, with 
weak or slow growth of horn, this is effectual if there is any life in 
the parts." 

In severe cases, as first explained, the firing iron is necessary, 
first cleaning out the dead part and filling in with hot tar, etc. 

This is added in order to give a little more extended idea of 
the method of treatment. 



G-EA\rELLmG. 947 



Gravellestg. 



A small stone, gravel, or dirt becoming imbedded under the 
shoe at the point of the heel between the bar and frog, usually the 
inner heel, and working through the sole into the quick, is called 
gravelling. If not removed, it will in time work up through the 
coronet, or cause matter to form which will burrow between the 
•wall and sensible sole. 

The horse shows more or less lameness on the trot; is aggra- 
vated when driven over hard ground or trotted fast. If not in- 
terfered with, the lameness continues for about thi-ee months, when 
the gravel usually works through the coronet, making a small 
break in the skin, after which the lameness disappears; but 
should the matter be confined to the sole and surrounding parts, 
it is liable to cause considerable disturbance and injury to the foot. 

When a horse shows lameness without any apparent cause, 
this part should be carefully examined, 1st, to discover if the 
sole is broken at the point of the heel; 2nd, by slight tapping 
against the wall of the part with a small stone or hammer, to find 
if there is any unusual sensibility ; 3d, by resting the hand gently 
upon the part, to see if there is any increased heat, which would 
of course point to the seat of trouble. Sometimes gravel works 
into the sensitive part in consequence of the sole being denuded to 
relieve a bruise or corn. The point is to remove the cause of ii'ri- 
tation. If much inflammation and pain, poultice; this will lower 
inflammation, and aid in soaking out and removing any foreign 
matter accumulated. When this has been done, saturate a pledget 
of tow with tincture of myrrh, or tar ointment, or Friar's balsam, 
and insert into the part, covering it completely. Next, fit a shoe 
so there will be no pressure upon this part, and nail on. It will 
usually be found necessary to put on a bar shoe imtil the heel is 
grown down again and will bear pressure. 

Beuise of the Sole. 

The sole is liable to bruise from the shoe being improperly 
seated, sometimes from sand or gravel being impacted in the web 
of the shoe, or by " picking up " a stone, Avhich, getting wedged 
in the foot, bruises the sole. 

Symptoms. — Lameness first attracts attention to it; in re- 



948 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



moving the shoe, the sole is found tender, and the foot hot; on 
paring the sole, it is found discolored at the bruised part. 

Treatment. — A few days' rest may be necessary, with the 
foot immersed in a poultice, or stopped with some emollient dress- 
ing ; and by using a leather sole or felt pads for a short time, it 
disappears. 

Treads, or Calks. 

Injuries to the coronet are very common, especially in the 
Northern States during the winter months, when horses with sharp 
calks are driven or worked on rough, icy roads or deep snow, par- 





FiG. 811. — The coronet as it 

usually appears v/hen 

badly calked. 



IG. 812. — As the liair should 
be clipped from the edges 
of the injury. 



ticularly in the woods. Treads, or calks, usually happen on the 
hind foot, by the horse accidentally setting one foot on the other, 
or another horse stepping on it. In ordinary cases, if not cut 
very deep, all that is necessary to do is to cut the hair from the 
edges, sponge or clean out any hair or dirt that may be driven in, 
and pour on a little kerosene oil, followed by a little hot tar, or 
the parts covered with hot tar Avill bo sufficient. 

But if the cut is deep, it Avill sometimes pi'ove to be a very 
serious difficulty, and require prompt attention to prevent serious 
inflammation of the parts. The first thing to be done in such a 
case is to carefully remove any dirt, or other foreign matter. 
Wben thoroughly clean, it may be bound up with a pledget of 



TBEADS, OR CALKS. 



949 



tow dipped in tincture of myrrh, or compound tincture of benzoin, 
or Friar's balsam, which, if available, will be found an excellent 
remedy. The poiat is now to prevent any excessive inflammation. 
Keep the horse quiet, feed bran-mashes, etc., no graia; and if 
there is enough inflammation to cause much soreness, cover the 
foot with a large hot poultice. If the soreness becomes at all ex- 
cessive, at once use hot fomentations, following up for at least one 
or tAVO hours three or four times a day; after which keep the leg 
tied up with wet cloths, or poultice. If there is extreme paia, 
give an anodyne, or inject a lit- 
tle morphine under the skin, as 
a horse cannot endure pain very 
long, and continue fomentations 
industriously ; this, at aU events, 
must not be neglected. 

In very severe cases it may 
be necessary to put the horse 
in slings, if he will not lie down. 
When the inflammation sub- 
sides, but little more is necessary 
to be done than to let the partis 
alone, dressed with any of the 

preparations before given. -irr- qiq t„ , * 

^ ^ , . ■ ^^®- °l^- — The usual appearance of a 

To illustrate the seriousness foot badly calked, and neglected 

of these cases sometimes, I will or improperly treated. 

refer to an accident of the kind to one of my own horses. One of 
my men, who had special charge of and drove a favorite pony, 
took it into his head during the winter to have the calks pointed 
with steel and made very sharp. While the pony was standing 
in his stall, with one foot resting against the opposite, he was sud- 
denly startled by some one approaching, when, throwing his weight 
upon the elevated foot, the inside calk was driven well into the 
coronet of the opposite foot. I was kept ignorant of the accident 
for several days, when it was made known to me by discovering 
the horse to be lame. The injury at the surface did not seem to 
be serious, but it was deep. In consequence of being driven on 
the road, the inflammation soon became so serious that it was nec- 
essary, at great inconvenience, to leave the horse behind a couple 
of weeks, the part in the meantime being thoroughly poulticed 




950 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



and fomented. The inflam- 
1 nation passing off, and be- 
ing entirely free from lame- 
ness, he AY as again put 
to his work on the road, 
Avhen the roads were break- 
ing up. Driving him through 
the deep mud for a few miles, 
agaui brought on such serious 
inflammation of the parts as 
to necessitate a constant ap- 
plication of fomentations for 
hours at a time, night and 
day, for several days, to over- 
come it. Fig. 814 is an illus- 
tration of how he stood when 
he suffered most severely. 
I also give specimens of the 
usual method of sharpening 
the calks in winter, and as they should be rounded or filed 




Fig. 814. —As the foot was held during 
the greatest inflammation. 




Fig. 815. — Calks as they are usually sharpened in winter. 

to prevent serious injury. Owners should not neglect to look 
to this matter very carefully. The toe and inside calk especially 




Fig. 816. — As the calks should be blunted or rounded to prevent cutting, 
should be rounded sufliciently to prevent any serious cutting. 
Concave shoes should be used in winter; with such, calks need 



OVBEEEACH. 



951 



not be long or sharp to give sufficient hold. Particular care should 
be taken not to have any calks or sharp shoes on when there is an 
effort to subdue a horse. This caution must not be disregarded, 
as a horse under such circumstances is liable to cut himself dan- 
gerously. 

Overreach. 

When a horse, in a fast pace, overreaches the fore with the 
hind foot, the inner rim of the shoe cutting a semi-circular flap on 





Fig. 817 — A good rep- 
resentation of an in- 
jury by over- 
reach. 



Fig. 818.— As the edges of 

the wound should be 

trimmed before 

dressing. 



the heel or quarter, it is called an "overreach." It should be 
treated as a tread; but when practicable, the edges should be 
brought together by a wire suture, and bound up with Friar's bal- 
sam or compound tincture of benzoin. 

QUITTOR. 

In all cases in which matter forms in the foot, whether from 
pricks, corns, bruises, or treads, unless it has free openings to es- 
cape by, it acts as an irritant, extending in every direction, form- 



952 



DISEASES AJSTD THEIE TEEATMBNT. 



ing tissues, and at last ■working its way to the coronet, where it 
bursts, producing a very troublesome disease, and requiriug both 
patience and perseverance to effect a cure. 

Symptoms. — It is recognized by the small aperture at the 
coronet, which seems almost overgrown with "proud flesh." The 
discharge is glary and constant. On examining it with a probe, 
sinuses are found running in all directions. The quarter is en- 
larged and bulging, and the lameness severe and protracted. 

As I cannot do better than give the treatment used by Mr. 

Gamgee,* which is recognized 
as the very best, I will give it 
in full : — 

" After taking off the shoe, 
and doing all that is necessary 
to the hoof, I prepare to inject a 
mixture, for the pharmaceutical 
combination of which I say noth- 
ing, though I can say a great 
deal for its practical efficiency. 
To prepare the mixture, take 
bichloride of mercurj^, one 
drachm ; rectified spirit, one 
ounce; after rubbing and dissolv- 
ing the sublimate in the spirit, 
add half a drachm of liquor 
plumbi acetatis. By means of a 
small syringe, elastic gum, or 
peuter, with small tube two in- 
ches in length, and bulbous end, 
This requires to be carefully 




Fig. 819. — An ideal representation of 
foot showing bad condition 
of quittor. 

I inject the mixture down the sinus. 



but very effectually done. The direction of the syringe must there 
fore be changed from the vertical to the oblique, in both a foi*ward 
and backward direction, the object being to infiltrate the mass as far 
as it can be penetrated by the innumerable small sinuses converging 
to the outer channel. To do this part well, one strong man is better 
than several hands, if the horse's head be held steady, and an assist- 
ant hand the instruments, etc. I take the horse's foot forward upon 
my knee, and, as a rule, succeed in performing the operation with- 
out giving much pain to cause the horse to resist; though difficulty, 
requiring a little exceptional care, may occasionally occur when 
previous treatment and torture have been resorted to. ISTow for 
the efffect that follows: The foot is released and placed on the 
ground, and once or twice the animal stamps, indicating that a 

* Joseph Gamgee, formerly professor in the new Veterinary College, Edin- 
burgh, Scotland. 



QUITTOE. 953 

smarting is produced by the caustic agent ; but in a brief space of 
time that passes, and signs of ease are manifest. On examining 
the foot in as short a time as four hours after the operation, I have 
found the tumor sensibly subsided, and all the symptoms favorable. 
We have been in the habit (members of my family used this excel- 
lent remedy before me) of repeating the injection of the prepara- 
tion a second time after the lapse of twelve to twenty-four hours, 
and again, after a similar interval, a third time. And this general 
rule seems to me to recommend itself, and admit of explanation in 
this way: At first all the structures are so engorged that the agent 
cannot be forced through the morbid deposit; but, in proportion as 
the diseased structures are reached, they are destroyed, and shrink, 
and in each succeeding application the fluid caustic is pressed 
round the withered, wasted substance, until the whole comes away 
in the space of a week or little more, when the cure is far ad- 
vanced, and thereafter rapidly effected. This represents the prog- 
ress of a good cure. Sometimes the application has to be repeated 
several times, at intervals of two or three days ; but where delay 
is essential, I diminish the activity of the preparation by adding a 
double portion of spirit." 

The following treatment for quittor, was given the writer by 
one of the most successful practitioners in the country, who claims 
it will cure any case, in fact, leaving nothing to be desired when 
used properly: — 

"In the first stage of quittor inject into every part carefully 
two or three times a day the following lotion: — 

5 ounce corosive sublimate, 
2 drachms Goulard's extract, 
4 ounces alcohol. 

"After the fourth day inject twice a day equal parts of the 
following mixture: — 

2 ounces potassa chloras, 
1 ounce potassa permanganas, 
I ounce acid hydrochloric, 
8 ounces water. 

" This is a splendid thing for quittor, and also fistulas withers. 
Of late, I have great success with it." 

A bar or three-quarter bar shoe, should be used for some time, 
and the diseased quarter cut down to keep it from pressure ; and 
in the course of time the foot will become useful, if not sound. 



954 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

Thrush. 

Copying the language of a standard authority, " Thrush is 
inflammation of the lower structure of the sensible frog, during 
which pus is secreted with or instead of horn." It is most com- 
mon in the hind feet, and also occurs in the fore. It occurs at all 
ages, and is frequently seen in the colt running in the straw-yard, 
arising from the acrid moisture of urine, dung, etc., softening and 
corroding the frog, and extending to the sensible structures above. 
It is also seen in roadsters whose feet are not exposed to acrid 
moisture. In them it is caused by contraction, or the insinuation 
of sand and dirt into the cleft of the frog, producing irritation, 
followed by suppuration of the sensitive frog, causing it to secrete 
unhealthy horn, and discharge offensive matters. 

It may sometimes be constitutional, as we often observe it ap- 
pear just as the coat is being changed, and other constitutional 
changes are taking place in the system. 

Symptoms. — There is seldom much la,meness, unless the ani- 
mal steps on a stone, or sand or gravel gets into the cleft ; but it 
is always attended by a tender, gingerly action. The cleft of the 
frog is deeper than in health, and a thin acrid discharge oozes from 
its sides and bottom, emitting a characteristic and foetid odor. If 
not checked, it extends, and the frog becomes loose and ragged ; 
scales fall off" in layers, exposing the sensitive parts, which are 
tender and contracted. If neglected, the entire foot may be in- 
volved, and it may degenerate into canker. 

Treatment. — No time should be lost, and no case, however 
slight, should be neglected. The foot must be thoroughly cleaned, 
and all loose, detached parts freely removed. The secreting sur- 
face should be exposed, and calomel dusted on, and pressed with 
a spatula or thin slip of wood into every crevice. Keep the foot 
thoroughly dry, and more than one or two dressings will seldom 
be requii'ed. Sometimes it readily yields to cleanliness and sim- 
ple dressings, with hot tar placed in the cleft with tow, and re- 
tained with cross slips, or applications of sugar of lead or sulphate 
of zinc. Or, after the parts have been washed, and the diseased 
part removed as directed, apply powdered sulphate of copper to 
the parts, and fill up all parts with cotton packed in so as to keep 
out all dirt. If necessary, this should be repeated in a few days. 



CANKER 955 

It is generally advisable to give some opening medicine, and 
attend to the general health and exercise. 

Canker. 

Canker of the foot is apt to supervene in cases of neglected or 
badly treated thrush, quittor, or puncture, and often follows bad 
cases of grease. It is most common in heavy draught-horses, 
that are kept in damp, filthy stables, and is most prevalent about 
large cities. 

Symptoms. — In this disease we find a morbid state of the 
sensitive sole and frog, and instead of sound, healthy horn, fun- 
gus-excrescences are thrown out, with an ofiensive acrid dischai-ge. 
When aggravated, the whole becomes cov- 
ered with a growth of fungus, which are 
like shreds of leather in appearance, with a 
great tendency to spread over or underrun 
the sole, separating the horny from the sen- 
sitive parts. It is very difficult to get the 
horn to grow again. 

Treatment. — In no case is so much pa- 
tience required as in canker, — in fact, it is fig. 830. The foot, 

generally considered as incurable, from the showing canker, 
difficulty experienced in suppressing the fungus, and getting the 
horn to grow again. All loose and detached horn must be care- 
fully removed, so as to give free vent to the irritating matter. 
As much of the fungus as may seem practicable, without much 
bleeding, should be removed by the knife or cautery, and followed 
up by some escharotic, such as acetate or sulphate of copper, ni- 
trate of silver, butter of antimony, or sulphuric acid. Whatever 
caustic is used, it must be applied every day ; for if neglected for 
one day, it is apt to underrun the sole, and may lose more than it 
will regain in a week. Firm pressure is very beneficial, and 
should be constantly applied by means of tow, firmly impacted, 
and retained by means of slips of wood or hoop-iron slid under 
the shoe, and the foot must be kept perfectly dry. 

The caustic may be occasionally changed. To destroy the 
fogtor, chloride of zinc or chloride of lime may be dusted on, or 
even occasional dressings of dry lime will be useful. With a 
dressing of tar, in which verdigris and nitric acid, two drachms 




956 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

of each to one pound of tar, are well mixed, and applied with a 
degree of firm pressure, at least every second day, the worst cases 
can be cured. 

Moderate work, if it can be done without the foot getting 
wet, will expedite the cure. The following is highly recom- 
mended as a dressing : Take equal parts of pine tar and lard, melt 
over a slow fire, and add sulphuric acid very slowly until ebuli- 
tion (boiling) ceases. Apply this to the parts. 

Spkains, Beuises, etc. 

Sprains are so common, and so liable to spoil a horse when 
neglected or not treated properly, and in addition the treatment 
is so simple and easily applied, that the subject is worthy of more 
than ordinary attention. On this account I have introduced 
several illustrations, showing the parts involved in the fore legs, 
the parts most liable to such injury. 

Sprain may be said to consist in an overstretching of the 
part (be it muscle, tendon, or ligament) to such a degree as to 
cause rupture of some of the fibres of which it is composed, in 
consequence of which inflammation is set up, and efiusion takes 
place, producing enlargement around the part. 

The reason why sprains take so long to recover is, the lacer- 
ated fibres have to be absorbed, and new ones formed in their 
place, or, as is often the case in repeated sprain of the same part, 
their place is filled up by organized lymph, leaving a permanent 
thickening. 

Causes. — Natural weakness of the part sometimes predisposes 
to it. It may arise from whatever exposes the part to inordinate 
exertion, as, for instance, slipping on ice or on a rolling stone, 
awkward stepping, galloping on rough or uneven ground, and a 
common cause is, allowing the feet to grow too long. 

Symptoms. — In severe cases the part is swollen, hot, and 
tender, the limb is thrown into a position that relaxes the spraiaed 
part. If extensive, we have symptomatic fever, and he refuses 
his food, has the mouth hot, pulse accelerated, etc., which passes 
off" when the more acute symptoms subside. Lameness, of course, 
is continuous, thus difieriag from disease of the joint, in which he 
is always lamest at starting, getting less lame as he gets warmed up. 

Treatment. — No matter where the location of the sprain is. 



SPEAIJST OF THE BACK TENDONS. 957 

or what part is injured, the principle of treatment is the same, 
when we have three indications presented: First, to allay the in- 
flammatory process ; secondly, to promote absorption of the 
decayed fibres ; and thirdly, to hasten the production of new 
ones. Most authors recommend either local or general depletion 
by bleeding from one of the large veins near the seat of injury, or 
from the jugular vein of the neck. This, however, I think is 
now-a-days very wisely dispensed with, and in my opinion is 
altogether unnecessary. 

The bowels must be freely opened, and kept open by laxative 
and easily digested food, such as bran mash, linseed tea, roots, 
etc. The continued application of heat or cold to the part aids 
greatly in checking the inflammatory action. If pain and swell- 
ing are excessive, hot fomentations continued for an hour or two, 
alternated with cold water, will be found to give most relief. 
(For particulars in fomenting, see Fomentation.) Gentle and 
equable pressure, by means of a judiciously applied bandage, is 
very beneficial in sprains of the leg. 

Rest must be given from the first, and the patient must be 
turned into a loose-box. Having by these means succeeded in 
subduing the inflammation, one or two applications of an absorb- 
ing blister will generally remove any enlargement that may re- 
main. Should the thickening and lameness prove obstinate, the 
firing-iron may be resorted to. (An explanation of the method 
of doing which, see Firing in Spavins.) 

Speain of the Back Tendons. 

The principal seat of sprain in the fore limb is in the tendons 
at the back part of the leg, usually called sprain of the back ten- 
dons, or back sinews. As these tendon (flexor perforans and 
perforatus) are the chief agents in producing the motions of the 
limbs, acting like levers over the pulley-like surfaces on the ends 
of the bones in their passage down to the foot, they are conse- 
quently very liable to be overstretched and strained, sometimes 
in a very slight degree, and sometimes to a considerable extent. 
It may be necessary'- here to notice the arrangement of these two 
tendons. The muscles (perforans and perforatus) arise from be- 
low the elbow-joint, pass down through a theca at the back of 
the knee ; below the knee they become tendinous ; the first is one 



958 



DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. 



of great strength, nearly round, and is inclosed in the other, 
which forms what is termed a sheath for it ; half-way down the 
cannon, the perforans is 
joined by a strong liga- 
ment (the metacarpal) ; the 
two tendons pass down 
together through a sheath 
formed for them at the 
back of the fetlock ; the 
latter splits into two divis- 
ions, having the perforans 
passing between them ; 
they are inserted one into 
each side of the lower pas- 
tern bone (or coronse), the 
perforans, passing down, 
is inserted into the sole of 
the coffin-bone, just in 
front of the navicular 
joint, over which it passes. 
A good illustration of these 
different parts is given in 
Fig. 821. 



A, Flexor perforatus. 

B, Flexor perforans. 

C, Metacarpa ligament. 

D, Superior sesamoidal liga- 
ment. 

d, Bifurcation of the sesamoid- 
al ligament. 

y, Continuation forward of 
branch of the sesamoidal liga- 
ment. 

F, Continuation of the flexor 
perforans tendon, afterwards in- 
setted into the lower side of the 
OS pedis. 

E, Extensor tendon. 

M, Great metacarpal, or can- 
non shank bone. 
S, Splint bone. 




Fig. 831. — Tendons and ligaments of the fore leg. 



SPEAIlSr OP THE BACK TENDONS. 959 

Fig. 822 will be found an especially fine illustration of the 
perforatus and perforans tendons above the fetlock, an explan- 
ation of which is also included. A point here which is very nicely 
explained by White, who says: — 

•' Between these two tendons, there are m two parts thin vas- 
cular membranes by which they are joined together; these mem- 
branes appear to serve as bridles, allowing the perforans tendon to 
move a little way within the perforatus, and then preventing any 
further motion. The situation of those membranes is about mid- 
way in the pastern. If the coffin joint happens to be extended in a 
way the animal was not prepared for, both these membranes are 
ruptured. The consequence is an effusion of blood between the 
two tendons, whereby all motion between them would be effect- 
ually prevented, were the animal left to obey his own instinctive 
feelings." 

In most of the so-caUed cases of clap, or sprain of the back 
tendons, the ligament, and not the tendons, is the seat of the 
injury. 

Causes- — Whatever tends to throw unusual stress upon these 
parts may produce it, such as galloping on uneven ground, allow- 
ing the hoofs to grow too long, thereby increasing the leverage on 
the tendon; sometimes it occurs in leaping, often while jumping 
around in play. 

Symptoms. — The animal is very lame, the part is hot, swol- 
len, and tender ; the limb is held forward, so as to relax the part; 
in some cases he can hardly touch the ground. On taking up the 
foot and pinching with the fingers, he evinces the pain he feels. 
If the outer tendon (perforatus) is injured, we have a bulging out 
behind, interrupting the evenness of the line which characterizes 
the tendons. If the perforans, it is felt between the ligament and 
the perforatus ; and if the metacarpal ligament, as is -most gener- 
ally the case, it can be felt between the bone and the tendon. 

Treatment. — As before stated, the first condition of cure is 
rest. The animal must be turned into a loose-box, and if the in- 
jury is severe, the swollen limb must be well fomented with hot 
water, cold may be preferable, if slight. This must be kept up 
for more than an hour, when the following cooling lotion may be 
well rubbed in, and a thick woolen bandage applied, well satu- 
rated with it, and kept wet with cold water: — 



960 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



T^Tudoih^ 



t 




Fig. 822. 



2 ounces nitre (saltpetre), 
2 ounces sal-ammoniac, 
4 oimces common salt, 
1 pint spring water. 

Or, the following: — 

4 ounces saltpetre, 

1 ounce sugar of lead, 

1 ounce muriate of anmaonia, 

1 pint common salt, 

2 gallons cold water. 

Perhaps the simplest and 
best home treatment would be 
about as follows: — 

Make a bag as long as the 
limb — an old trowsers leg of 
good size, sufficiently long to 
extend from the hoof to above 
the knee would be the thing. 
Tie a string rather loosely 
around the foot below the fet- 
lock. To keep it in place, 
secure a wide tape or strip 

A, The outside nerve, or that part 
of it where the branch H communi- 
cates. B, The suspensory ligament. 
C, The great ligament of the back 
sinew. D, The two back sinews, or 
flexor tendons. E, E, The extensor 
tendon. E, The cannon or shank bone. 
G, The splint bone. H, The back 
sinews and their great suspensory lig- 
ament, apparently joined together. 
This, however, is not the case ; it in- 
corporates only with the perforans 
tendon, marked figure 2, and so inti- 
mately that they form one and the 
same substance, at the part marked 
by the letter i. The perforatus, 
marked figure 3, forms a sheath for 
the perforans, as already described in 
the article on Strains. 5, The fetlock- 
joint. 



SPEAIN OF THE BACK TENDONS. 



961 



of cloth to the upper edge of the bag, pass it over the 
shoulder and fasten to the opposite edge; next take bran, to 
which add a little salt, and pour on it as much 
boiling water as will bring it to a thin consist- 
ence. While hot as the horse can bear, fill 
the bag with it. This will form a poultice 
around the part and keep it moist and sweat- 
ing. It can be kept hot by pouring on hot 
water occasionally, and should be renewed, if 
necessary, in twenty-four hours, and so con- 
tinue until the inflammation subsides. In all 
cases of severe sprain, a purgative should be 
given ; it reduces the fever, and acts as a coun- 
ter-irritant. In any event give opening, easily 
digested food. 

Having in this way reduced the inflamma- -pia. 823.— Showing 
tion, if the swelling still remains, apply a good the back tendons 
strong liniment or blister. The biniodide of 
mercury ointment is best in these cases, and 
should be repeated : — 




considerably thick- 
ened in consequence 
of repeated injury 
or strain. 



1^ drachms biniodide of mercury, 
1 ounce lard. 




Fig. 824. — Showing 

the effect of hard 

driving. 



A run at pasture will 
generally complete the 
cure. Sometimes, by re- 
peated sprains, the tendons 
become considerably thick- 
ened (as shown in Fig. 
823), in which case firing 
is preferable. Sometimes, 
from repeated sprains, the 
tendons become contracted, 
causing the animal to go on 
his toe; in these cases, the 
b operation of tenotomy, or 

Fig. 825.— Enlargement cutting the tendons, is ad- 

of the tendons from • ■, ■, 

^ . Visa Die. 

mterfermg or 

ging. The following treatment 

ex 




962 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

for sprains, which is given for ijisertion by a leading practitioner, 
will be found good: — 

First wash with very hot water five or ten minutes at a time, 
then apply the following mixture: — 

2 ounces tincture opium. 
1 ounce chloroform, 

1 ounce fluid extract aconite, 
7^ ounces soa^s liniment. 

To be applied two or three times a day after batliing the parts with hot 
water. 

If constipated and feverish, it should be given a slight purging 
ball. If the case has run two or three days, and is assuming a 
subacute stage, then stimulating liniment must bo used. The 
following may be used: — 

2 ounces aqua ammonia, 

2^ ounces spirits of camphor, 
71 ounces alcohol. 
To he rubbed on two or three times a day imtil the skin becomes sore. 

Breaking Down. 

The suspensory ligament is one of the strongest m the body; 
it is placed immediately behind the cannon-bone, from the head 
of which it rises; passing down it divides, one division going to 
each of the small bones at the back of the fetlock (ossa sessa- 
moides.) (See Fig. 821.) This ligament is the great main-stay 
of the fetlock-joint, and sustains the most of the weight at this 
part, consequently we frequently find it snaps asunder under the 
great weight thrown upon it in leaping, galloping, etc. It is 
sometimes broken above the division ; but more commonly, one or 
both bifurcations are torn. 

Causes. — Violent exertion, or sudden jerks, as is the case in 
leaping, galloping, or j umping from a height. 

Symptoms. — It is sometimes mistaken for rupture of the 
flexor tendons ; but this is so improbable an occurrence, that we 
are almost skeptical of its occurrence at all. If it does occur, it 
is extremely rare. In rupture of the ligaments, the fetlock de- 
scends to the ground ; but when raised, the animal can flex the 
foot, which he could not do were the tendons ruptured. It 
usually occurs near the sessamoides when we have swelling, heat, 
and pain. 



SPEAIJSr OF THE FETLOCK. 



963 



Treatment. — Slinging is almost indispensable to keep the 
limb steady, the judicious application of splints and bandages, 
and a high-heeled shoe should be put on so as to keep the parts 
in situ ; and the inflammation must be regulated by the constant 
application of cold, laxative medicine, and cooling, easily-digested 
food, sparingly supplied, when re-union will take place, but a 
permanent thickening is generally left. When the animal is able 
to use the limb, the slings and splints may be dispensed with, 
and it may be fired or blistered to consolidate the now fibres, and 
form a permanent bandage to the part. The horse can never 
afterward be passed as sound, nor will he stand much hard work. 





Fig. 826. — Method of applying 
the bandage. 



Fig. 837.— Showing the 
leg bandaged. 



Spkain of the Fetlock. 

The ligaments of the fetlock-joint are sometimes sprained, 
giving rise to swelling of the joint, pain, and lameness. Its 
nature, causes, symptoms, and treatment differ so little from those 
of other parts that it is only necessary to state that the treatment 
is the same. 

But suppose we have a strain of the extensor tendon or of the 
ligaments of the fetlock-joint, and the horse must be moved. In 
that case it would be necessary to apply a woolen bandage over 
the part carefully, drawing it tightly, and holding it in place by 



964 DISEASES AND THEIK TEBATMBNT. 

sewing it on. But as soon as the stable is reached, this bandage 
must be taken off, and a loose one put on. If there is not very 
much inflammation, simply lameness and weakness, good treat- 
ment would be keeping the bandage thoroughly wet with hot 
vinegar and salt, by pouring it on. In one instance, one of my 
horses, Turco, v/as so seriously sprained that he could scarcely 
step, the joint knuckling forward as shown in Fig. 828. It was 
absolutely necessary to drive him eight or ten miles. By bandag- 
ing the leg tightly as described, he went along 
quite well ; but as soon as the stable was reached, 
this bandage was taken off, and a loose one put 
on, which was kept wet as explained; and be- 
ing compelled to drive him every day, this treat- 
ment was repeated; and though he Avas driven 
over one hundred miles in two weeks, he Avas at 
the end of that time entirely over the effects 
of the sprain. 

At another time, when in Maine, Tommy 
sprained the tendons of one of his forward legs, 
so that he could scarcely step. We simply raised 
the heel-calks of his shoe, rounded the toe, and 
bandaged the parts loosely, and kept wet as ex- 
plained. Next morning the ankle was tightly 
bandaged, when he was able to do considerable 

FiX 828. Turco's work in the ring, and walk through to the next 

leg as it knuckled town, ten miles. This course was repeated, and 
forward. g^^ ^^^q expiration of about two weeks, he was all 

riarht, though in the time driven about one hundred miles. 

Sprain of tele Perforans Tendon, or Navicular- 
JoiNT Lameness. 

The symptoms are very fully explained under that head, but 
would hei-e state again, that in an acute stage, the principle is 
rest, with hot fomentations or cooling applications; next aiding 
mobility of the parts involved to prevent irritation, by the con- 
struction of the shoe, etc. 

Shoulder Lameness. 

. This ia not very common, but is liable to happen from the 




SHOULDEE LAMENESS. 



965 




Fig. 



829. — As a horse will travel with 
lame shoulder. 



limb slipping sideways while running in a pasture, or slipping in- 
cidentally on a wet plank, or ice, etc. 

To guard against error in 
diagnosing affections of the 
shoulder, it must be borne in 
mind that all muscular tissue 
is apt to waste if it is deprived 
of its usual amount of exercise, 
as we frequently see in the 
shoulder; the shoulder shrink- 
ing on one or both sides, while 
the real seat of the disease is in the feet ; therefore it is very 
necessary to be able to distinguish shoulder-lameness from many 
other affections with which it is apt to be confounded. Many 
horse doctors and those about horses are apt to attribute every 
lameness they do not understand, and whose seat is not self-evi- 
dent, to an affection of the shoulder. 

We have seldom any recognizable tumefaction, nor much heat, 
unless it be recent and violent. When the horse has strained the 
shoulder, the limb is brought forward with a peculiar dragging 
motion, as shown in Fig. 829; whereas if the trouble is in the 
foot, the limb will be raised and brought forward without much 
difficulty, but put down tenderly to lighten the concussion. 
While standing, the joints will be somewhat relaxed, the heel 

raised, with the toe resting upon 
the ground. In moving, the head 
will be carried low, the limb 
brought forward with a good deal 
of difficulty and pain, and with- 
out ability to bring it in front 
of the other. 

Treatment. — Give a dose of 

Fig. 830. — Distribution of capillaries physic, foment the shoulder and 
m muscle. inside of the arm close to the chest 

with hot water, which is to be continued for at least one hour, and 
to be repeated as long as there is inflammation; give fever medi- 
cine three times a day; give food of a light opening nature, such 
as grass, bran mashes, etc., and keep him quiet in a box stall un- 
til the lameness disappears. One of the liniments for sprains, etc., 




966 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

may be used after the acute 
stage passes off. This is about 
all that can be done, though 
some bleed from the inner plate 
vein during the acute stage. 
This method is not now often 
practiced, however. When the 
case becomes chronic, blisters and 
setons may be employed with 
good success. 

Liniment fob, Shoulder-Lame- 
ness. 




2 ounces aqua ammonia, 

2J ounces spirits of camphorse, 

7^ ounces rectified spirits of vini. 

First, foment the part with 
hot water; then rub as near 
dry as possible, and apply 
the liniment twice a day un- 
til the skin is quite sore, and 
then stop for a few days ; if 
the lameness is not gone by 

this time, renew the treatment 

-IP Fig. 831. — Internal aspect of the 

left fore leg. 

Sweeney. 

" This is a sprain of the muscle which fills up the posterior cavitj- 
on the outer side of the shoulder-joint (outer tubercle of the head 
of the humerous). It occurs mainly in young horses when first 
put to plow, or in others going on uneven ground, and stepping 
unexpectedly into holes. In the endeavor to recover the equilib- 
rium on stepping into a furrow or hole, this muscle which forms 
the outer support of the joint is injured, and there results heat, 
swelling, and tenderness on the outside of the joint, and a most 
characteristic gait. The horse may walk, or even trot, without 
much apparent lameness ; but standing directly in front of him the 
affected shoulder is seen to roll outward from the body to a far 
greater extent than the sound one. Soon the muscle begins to 
waste rapidly, and in bad cases the shoulder-blade may be denuded 
until it appears to be covered by nothing but skin." — Law. 



SWEANEY. 



967 



A badly fitting collar often, gives rise to it. A prominent 
cause also is some injury to the foot, which would prevent a 
proper use of the muscles of the shoulder, and thereby cause an 
atrophied or wasted condition of them. So that when there is 
wasting of the part, the foot should be carefully examined to see 
if there is any cause for it, and if so, removing it will of itself be 
sufficient to make a cure. 

Symptoms. — At first, though it is seldom noticed, the muscles 
swell up, are hot and tender ; in the course of a few days, the 
swelling has disappeared, and the muscles are becoming fast ab- 
sorbed. In many cases this 
goes on till the bone can be 
felt. There is little or no pain 
on pressure in this stage, and no 
positive lameness ; but there is a 
peculiar rotary motion of the 
limb, from the other muscles 
having no counterbalancing 
power. This is sometimes mis- 
taken by non-professional men 
for dislocation of the shoulder- 
joint. This, however, cannot 
occur, unless it is accompanied 
by severe laceration, or even 
fracture. 

Treatment. — In the first in- 
stance, rest and hot fomentations are indicated, which, as the 
process of reproduction begins, should be followed by vstimulant 
embrocations or mild blisters, frequently repeated, with moderate 
walking exereise. In this case, we must trust more to nature 
than medicine; and in time the muscles will be reproduced, and 
by gentle work and well-fitting harness he will become as sound 
as ever. Many do nothing for them, but turn them to pasture, 
and in most cases tliey come up all right. 

The simplest and most efiective treatment for filling up the 
shoulder is the rubbing on thoroughly with the hand of soft soap, 
to which a little salt has been added. This do four or five times 
in the course of a week. This simple remedy, which is very 
effectual for this purpose, has been kept as a great secret by a 




Fig. 832. — An ideal representation of the 
shoulder with sweanej-. 



968 DISEASES AND THEIR TEEATMENT. 

leading horseman in Toledo, Ohio, who has repeatedly sold it for 
five dollars, first showing its efiect in filling up the shoulder, when 
he could easily sell the prescription. 

Hip-Lameness, 

Sprain of the whirl, or round bono, as it is commonly called, 
consists of a sprain of the round ligament of the femur, which 
holds the ball in the socket. Sometimes it is almost torn 
asunder; but so strong is this articulation, that dislocation cannot 
occur, except as an accompaniment of fracture. 

Symptoms. — 
Very seldom any 
external swelling 
unless it is very se- 
vere, and the mus- 
c 1 e s surrounding 
the joint are in- 
volved; Yv^hen by 
making him stand 
square on his hind 
legs, and standing 
directly behind 
him, and compar- 
FlG. 833. — ^Deep muscles ol the hip and thigh. ^j^^r one hin with 

the other, any enlargement can be easily detected. Sometimes we 
have heat and tenderness ; but in most cases these are absent. One 
characteristic symptom is stepping short, the lame leg is not brought 
as far forward as the other one, and he drops on that quarter. The 
tendon of the gluteus maximus, as it passes over the trochanter, 
is frequently the seat of the lameness. In this case wo have 
swelling, heat, and pain on pressui-e, with short stepping. "When 
the horse stands in stable, he will stand square on both hind feet; 
and when moved the lame side is elevated and dragged along for 
want of muscular action. 

Treatment. — The first condition, as in all cases of lameness, 
is rest, with fomentations, alternated by cooling lotions, etc., until 
the inflammation is subdued, followed by repeated blisters, which 
must be freely used, as the disease is deep-seated. 

Apply hot fomentations to the part two or three times a day, 




HIP-LAMENESS. 969 

■which should be continued an hour or more each time, alternated 




Fig. 834. — Showing the superficial muscleG of the hip and thigh. 

with the pouring on of cold water. When the acute stage passes 

off, clip the hair closely from a large 
surface ten or twelve inches 
diameter over the part, and apply 
a sharp blister; a better condition- 
of counter irritation will be pro- 
duced by applying at the same time 
two cetons, which are to be ex- 
tended under the skin about six 
inches each, something of the form 
as shown in Fig. 835. (For special 
instruction, see Setons.) If need 
be, repeat the blisters. Recovery 
usually takes place in from one to 
two weeks ; but is sometimes a very 
serious lameness, and must be at- 
FiG. 835» tended to thoroughly and promptly. 




970 DISEASES AND THEIE TEBATMENT. 

The following is the treatment advised by very able practi- 
tioners: — 

"^G-ive a laxative, and apply hot fomentations to the part two 
or three times a day. After each fomentation apply a strong 
stimulating liniment. Continue this treatment until the skin is 
Gore, then cease the treatment, and apply the following for a few 
days: — 

" G ounces soft soap. 
12 ovmces alcohol. 
" Apply twice a day until well." 

Knuckling Over. 

Knuckling, or standing over, is very common in cab and stage 
horses. It gives the animal an ungainly, 
worn-out appearance. It may occur on one 
or both knees, which are bent forward, and 
are very shaky, or the fetlocks may be 
knuckled forward. Veterinarians differ as 
to the real nature of this condition, or as to 
the part really at fault. Some suppose that 
it is from " a relaxed and lengthened state 
of the extensor muscles; " others " of the lig- 
amentous tissue at the anterior part of the 
joint; " others " an inordinate contraction of 
the flexors, to such a degree that the equi- 
librium of the flexors and extensors is de- 
stroyed. Diasection, however, fails to con- 
firm these views. It appears to us to depend 

on contraction of the ligaments at the back 
Fig. 830.— An ordinary ^f ^^^^ ^^^^^ 

case of sprung knees. /-, tx • n i i ± 

^ Causes. — ^it is generally caused by too 

hard work when young, particularly continued road-work, which 
causes the joints to start forward, as shown in Fig. 836; and if it 
is continued, it becomes habitual. 

Symptoms. — It requires but to be seen to be recognized. In- 
stead of the beautiful, symmetrical form of the limb, the joint is 
thrown forward, throwing the shank-bone more oblique and the 
pastern-bones more straight, giving the animal a jaded, tottering 
appearance. 

Treatment. — Some blister, or fire and blister; but we think 




BROKEN KKEES, OR OPEN JOINT. 971 

these do no good whatever. All we can do is to give rest; leave 
the rest to nature. Turn him into a large loose-box or small pad- 
dock, and feed him well, and it is astonishing how the patient 
will sometimes improve. 

Drs. HamUl and Meyer treat ordinary cases of sprung knees 
with very marked success, by lowering the heels and lengthening 
out the toes somewhat ; this can be done both by paring the heels 
down some, and using thin-heeled shoes; then rubbing on the legs 
once or twice a day alcohol, or any good stimulant. The case 
seems to improve even under moderate work. Yery bad cases 
are incurable. 

Beoken Knees, or Open Joint. 

It is a very common occurrence in the horse, generally arising 





Fig. 837.— Broken Fig. 838.— The same with 

knee. hair clipped from the 

edges of the 
wound. 

from accidents, kicks, blows, stabs, etc. It is most common in 
the knee and hock; but all the joints of the limbs are liable to be 
punctured or laid open by some accident or inj ury. 

Open joints are generally divided into lacerated and punct- 
ured. In the former we have the skin, ligaments, etc., cut 
through, and the joint laid open, as is often seen in the knee. In 
the latter we have merely a small opening (it may be only suffi- 
cient to admit the probe) into the joint, from which trickles the 
sjmovia, or joint-oil. 

All cases are alike dangerous, and are characterized by the 
same general symptoms, and are liable to be attended by the same 
consequences. They differ only in degree, according only to the 
importance and extent of the cavity exposed. 



972 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

Causes. — The causes of open joint are almost invariably ex- 
ternal injury — in the knee from falling. The horse stumbles; 
falls upon his knees ; and should the ground happen to be 
gravelly, hard, or stony, the knees are liable to be lacerated, or cut 
through. 

In other joints the injury is Uvsually cau-sed by being inciden- 
tally stabbed or cut. 

Symptoms. — In giving an opinion in these cases, we must 
bear in mind that the joint is not always open, although "we have 
a discharge of synovia from the wound ; we may have it from the 
theca or sheath of some tendon, and it requires close examination 
in some cases to say which it comes from. What we imply by 
the term open joint, is where the skin, ligaments, tendons, etc., 
have been cut through, and the articulation laid open. 

In the first place, the animal is very lame. On examining 
the wound with the probe or finger, it is found to penetrate the 
joint; v/e have a clear, oily fluid, which is very smooth and 
slippery to the touch. The discharge may be very trifling, still it 
is not the less dangerous. In most cases we have symptomatic 
fever, which often runs so high as to cut the animal ofl". It is 
recognized by the quick pulse, hot mouth, irregular heat of the 
surface, costive bowels, and the excruciating pain the animal 
evinces. 

Treatment. — This is the most important part of the subject. 
In the first place, the animal must be removed to a comfortable 
stall or loose-box with a high roof, and well ventilated; he must 
at once be placed in slings, which should be gradually tightened 
until his toes barely touch the ground. 

The wound must be washed out with tepid water, all gravel 
or dirt removed, and the real extent of the injury ascertained. 
The limb must then be placed in splints, well padded, and held to- 
gether by leather straps. A very convenient plan for the knee is 
to take three slips of wood, about three inches wide, and half an 
inch thick, reaching from the elbow to the foot, with the edges 
beveled and well padded, and nailed together with three straps, 
which buckle in front. This, placed one at each side, and one 
behind, prevents flexion or extension of the joint entirely, and 
leaves it open to be dressed at pleasure, without undoing the 
splints. A large poultice of linseed or oatmeal should be applied 



BEOKEN KNEES, OE OPEN JOINT. 973 

cold, and continued until the granulations spring up from the bot- 
tom to close the wound. This simple plan of treatment is infi- 
nitely more soothing, and at the same time more successful, than 
the former methods of plastering it up with lime, flour, powdered 
bluestone, oxide of zinc, white vitriol, etc. To some, these may 
seem very convenient and effectual methods of stopping the dis- 
charge, and, doubtless, in some cases they may succeed if circum- 
stances are favorable; but in many cases when an artificial plug 
is thus formed, it merely plugs it up for a little time. By and 
by, ulceration of the skin occurs, the plug falls out before the in- 
ternal parts have healed, and the consequence is, that we have a 
far larger and more dangerous wound than before. In changing 
the poultice, be sure not to remove any of the coagula of synovia 
that may have formed around the opening. The poultice must be 
simply removed and changed, without washing the wound. 

When the granulations become extuberant, they can be regu- 
lated by squeezing a sponge of cold water over it, or dust on a 
little oxide of zinc. Nothing, however, must be injected into the 
wound, as is sometimes done. Punctured wounds of joints must 
be treated on the same principle; the joint must bo kept perfectly 
still, and the granulations encouraged by poultices, etc. 

Very often there are wounds in front of the knees, usually 
caused by falling or striking against some hard object, Avhich may 
be more or less severe, according to circumstances. In a simple 
case of ebrasion, but little if any treatment will be necessary; if 
much bruised with skin broken, tie short to a high rack to pre- 
vent lying down. Bandage the part tightly and keep wet with a 
mild astringent, such as — 

■| ounce sugar of lead, 
50 or 60 drops carbolic acid, 
3 pints to 2 quarts "water. 
Keep the liorse quiet until the inflammation is subdued. 

The best lotion in my judgment for these bruises and superfi- 
cial cuts of the skin, is collendula. It has the best effect in re- 
ducing inflammation of a bruise and cut of this kind of anything 
I know of. (See Collendula in list of medicines used.) 



974 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

Fractuees. 

Owing to the difficulty experienced in keeping the bones of 
the leg of the horse in place to enable their reunion, with the ex- 
pense and trouble involved, in addition to the fact that if even 
treated succassfully the horse is supposed to be of but little value 
afterwards, there is but little encouragement given by veterinary 
authorities for the successful treatment of such cases. But the 
success of Dr. Macbeth, of Battle Creek, Mich., in treating ordi- 
nary fractures, has been so marked, and by such simple treat- 
ment, too, which is, I believe, peculiar to himself, not being, so far 
as I know, laid down in veterinary works, that I am induced to 
give his method of treatment, which he kindly explained to me' 
with permission to publish, as it may serve to occasionally save a 
valuable horse. 

He tells me that within the past two years he has treated three 
cases with perfect success. The first, a yearling, was a split of 
the ossafraginis, or short coronary bone of the fore leg. The sec- 
ond, a four-year-old, a fractvii-e three inches above the fetlock- 
joint of the off hind leg. Third, an oblique fracture, involving 
the fetlock joint one inch above the joint of the fore leg of a seven- 
year-old. His method of treatment is as follows: — 

After providing himself with the best quality of plaster-of- 
Paris, he prepares from three to four splints made of strips of 
hickory -wood, about an inch and a half in width, and a fourth of 
an inch thick, of suitable length, or pieces of band iron about one- 
eighth of an inch in thickness, with the ends thinned down some- 
what, and if necessary, the edges and the bar bent to fit the form 
of the part ; he next provides bandages of suitable strips of cotton 
cloth, about three inches and a half in width. While the horse is 
standing naturally, the limb is brought forward a little, resting 
easily and naturally upon the ground, when the bones are held 
gently in a proper position. The part is first covered with a ban- 
dage of one thickness of the cloth ; next, a little of the plaster 
after being prepared, is put on the cloth under the splints, so as to 
level ofi*the inequalities of the surface, and give an even bearing to 
the splints. The bandage is now started from the bottom, with 
the aid of an assistant ; a little of the plaster is laid on quickly 
with the knife, in a layer of from one-fourth to three-eights of an 



FEACTUEES. 975 

inch thick, when the bandage is brought quickly over it, and 
drawn tight enough to cause the water to ooze through the cloth; 
this is continued, the bandage being lapped about one-half of an 
inch, until carried beyond the edges of the splints, when the pro- 
cess is reversed to the bottom, and then again to the top, making 
in all three layers, which forms a strong, unyielding cast about an 
inch, or a little more, thick around the part, when the horse is 
given freedom to take care of himself in a large comfortable stall. 

An important condition of success is in the preparation of the 
plaster. First, it should be of the very best quality ; next, as the 
plaster will set very quickly, not more than enough for one layer 
should be prepared or attempted to be put on at a time. Put in 
a tin dish about as much plaster as will be necessary for one coat 
or layer over the part. Pour on sufficient \yater to wet it well, 
and stir thoroughly for one minute. Being all ready, instantly 
commence putting on, laying on as stated, until the plaster be- 
comes too hard, when make another batch, and continue the pro- 
cess, and when that is used, making more, and continuing until 
finished. 

If the skin is broken, or there is a serious cut, as the splints 
are being put on, avoid covering the spot with wood or iron, and 
in the course of from six to ten hours, a hole should be made 
through the plaster to it, when it is to be treated as an ordinary 
wound. The point is to make the casing so long and tight as to 
thoroughly support the limb, without being too heavy or clumsy, 
yet not to obstruct the circulation. 

In each of the cases referred to, there was no swelling or other 
trouble, and consequently no after treatment. The horse was let 
alone, and in about eight weeks the cast was taken off, when there 
was found to be a complete union of the parts without any notic- 
able deformity. 

Dr. Macbeth tells me this method of management is original 
with himself so far as he knows, and certainly its simplicity in 
connection with his success, entitles him to considerable credit. 
Plaster has been employed, I understand, for this purpose, but was 
put on in such a way as to form a mass excessively heavy and 
clumsy, and consequently not favorable to success. 

Of course, when such an accident occurs, if a practitioner is 



976 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

available, he should be at once called in. The treatment is in- 
cluded mainly for the benefit of practitioners. 

Dislocation of the Patella, or " Stifled." 

This is most common in colts, from the outer condyle not be- 
ing fully developed, allowing the patella to glide off and on at 
every step. 

Causes. — It occurs generally in young animals, and is most 
common on hilly pasture when the soil is gravelly ; the feet be- 
coming worn and tender, causes him to relax the stifle in walk- 
ing, when the patella is apt to slide off. It sometimes occurs from 
external violence, or from interstitial absorption of the condyle. 

Symptoms. — The limb is extended 
backward, the foot is bent up, and the 
animal drags the limb as if it were 
cramped and vmable to draw it for- 
ward. Cramp of the muscles of the 
legs is not unfrequently mistaken for 
dislocation of the patella. But cramp 
is easily known from the suddenness 
of the attack, from there being no en- 
FiG. 889,— The borse as he usual- largement at the stifle, and from the 
ly appears when stifled. bending up of the foot. 

Treatment. — It must be returned to its place as soon as possi- 
ble, which can be easily done iu the foUowiag way: Make one or 
two assistants pull the foot forward, while you push the stifle 
back, and at the same time push the patella forward, when it will 
slip into its place, and the animal wUl walk off almost as sound as 
if nothing had happened. If it is followed by lameness or swell- 
ing about the joint, rest must be given, and to prevent its recur- 
rence, the stifle may be blistered. 

A very good plan with colts, in which it frequently comes out, 
is to remove the patient to a loose-box, with a level, even floor; 
and to put a shoe on, with a tip projectiug in front about two or 
three inches, slightly turned up, which will keep the muscles at- 
tached to it on the stretck, and so prevent its slipping out again. 
This may be worn for one or two months, as requii'ed. 

A good deal of a secret in relieving a horse when stifled, is to 
take short hold of the bridle or halter, so as to thi'ow the head up 




STIFLE-JOINT LAMENESS 977 

with a jerking motion, and quickly force the horse back upon his 
heels. It is rarely the peculiar exertion will not bring the patella 
back into place; when, by walking the horse back and forth a 
little, he will be found all right. 

Stifle-Joint Lameness. 

Besides dislocation of the patella or knee-cap, from laceration 
or extension of the lateral ligaments, we frequently find the stifle- 
joint itself diseased. The condyles may be diseased, or the semi- 
lunar cartilages may be displaced. Sometimes the tendinous ori- 
gin of the flexor metatarsimagnus (the principal muscle in bend- 
ing the hock-joint) is torn or strained. This is always a serious 
lameness, owing to the flexity of the part involved. 

Causes. — The causes are the same as in other joint-slips, blows, 
wrenches, etc. 

Symptoms. — In moving, the limb is held as straight as possi- 
ble; it is moved of a piece, as it were, the stifle is turned outward 
at every step, and the leg is swung around, and placed farther 
forward than in hip-lameness. In most cases we have heat and 
swelling. If made to stand on the limb, the capsular swelling 
can be felt, and pain is evinced on pressure. 

Treatment. — Eest must be given. If the cartilages are dis- 
placed, they must be replaced l)y careful manipulation; hot fo- 
mentations, or continued cold applications, must be applied; and 
in the latter stages, repeated blisters or setons should be re- 
sorted to. 

Cuts- or Wounds. 

In ordinary cases they are easily managed. All that is neces- 
sary to do is to clip the hair from the edges of the wound, remove 
any hair or dirt from it by sponging the part with warm water, 
and dress it with any of the healing preparations or digestives 
hereafter given, which will cause a secretion of yellow matter, and 
a healthy granulating process. Each day following, to be cleansed 
by sponging out with a lather made of castile soap and warm 
water, and the application of the medicine repeated. 

In a very serious, deep or contused wound, if any large blood 
vessels are severed, they should be tied up. Arteries will throw 
the blood out in jets, and veins in a steady stream. If an artery 

62 



978 DISEASES AND THEIK TEBATMBNT. 

is cut, it must be stopped promptly ; if it cannot be tied up, it can 
usually be stopped by touching it with a hot iron, or applying any 
good styptic. (See Styptics.) Simply covering over with cob- 
webs will usually answer a good purpose. Clip the hair from the 
edges, also any bits of loose skin which would be liable to slough 
olF ; but it is always advisable to save every bit of skin that can 
be kept alive; the part to be sponged out daily, and the dressing 
repeated. The injury will heal from the bottom, gradually filling 
up, by what is termed a granulating process. If there is serious 
inflammation, swelling and pain, poultice; but if poultices cannot 
be used to advantage, or if pain and swelling are very severe, hot 
fomentations must be applied and continued without intermis- 
sion until it subsides; then dress daily as directed. Care must 
also be taken to keep the horse quiet in a comfortable stall, free 
from the annoyance of flies, and fed with easily digested, laxative 
food; if much tendency to fever, give a small dose of physic. 

If the cut or wound is deep, dress with a tent, which is simply 
a wad of tow dipped in digestive ointment, which will be referred 
to farther on ; the cavity is not to be filled with the tent, but only 
the bottom, and then the wound will heal up as it ought ; if the 
wound is merely syringed out, or dressed superficially, it is liable 
to close over at the surface, and appear healed, while at the bottom 
the matter is spreading and burrowing, forming a sinus ; in case 
there is too rapid gramulation, or proud flesh, check it by touch- 
ing with a little caustic. When the wound fills up, and there 
is not skin enough to cover it, dusting over it a little of the magic 
healing powder, or any of the astringents given, will cicatrize it 
quickly. If a wound is indolent, or does not seem to granulate, 
simply use a stronger stimulant; if serious, using a caustic, which 
will remove the unhealthy parts, and set up a healthy condition 
of granulation. A very good, simple stimulant to rouse an indo- 
lent ulcer to action, is an ounce of blue vitriol, pulverized, to a pint 
of water; and for a simple healing or granulating effect, a lighter 
preparation, or about 2 drachms to a pint of water : to be used as 
a dressing once a day. If the^wound is deep so as to make a 
pouch of accumulated matter, it must be syringed ^out from the 
bottom every day, or better a dependent opening made from the 
bottom, and kept open by a piece of tape or string passed through 
it, to let the matter pass off". 



CUTS OK WOUNDS. 979 

For deep, incised wounds, from pitch-fork, etc., the following 
is claimed to be excellent: — 

1 pound saltpetre, 
1 gallon water, 
1 quart best whisky. 
Inject into the wound with a syringe three times a day until a cure is 
effected. 

It prevents inflammation or a tendency to sloughing or morti- 
fication. A gun-shot wound, a foot deep, in the thigh of a horse 
(the ball could not be found, remaining in the leg) was perfectly- 
cured in two weeks by this treatment. 

In any case of sinuses being formed, they must be opened up 
to the bottom, and made a simple wound, when it is to be treated 
as for a wound. Or, the pipes destroyed by a caustic introduced 
and repeated until the unhealthy part is sloughed out to the bot- 
tom. A very simple and effective caustic is that made of blue 
vitriol, either in strong solution, when it could be injected, or a lit- 
tle powdered fine in the form of a tent, which is simply a little 
rolled up in a strip of thin paper, twisted at the ends, and pushed 
to the bottom with a probe. Several parcels of this kind, one after 
another, can be pushed in until the sinuses are filled. In four or 
five days a core will be formed, which will usually destroy the 
sinuses to the bottom ; if any remain, it can be ascertained, and 
the dressing repeated upon that part, until it is all made a clean 
wound, when it can be treated as before described with a simple 
digestive preparation. 

If there is an injury to the bone, ligament, or tendon, and not 
treated properly, a small sinus is formed, from which matter will 
ooze. In such a case, a probe must be introduced, and its extent 
ascertained; if the sinus extends to the bone, which can be known 
by the probe striking it, a free opening should be made to the 
bottom, if the situation will admit, the diseased surface scraped 
off", when it can be treated as before explained, by the use of 
Friar's balsam, etc. If all dead matter is not removed, sinuses 
are again liable to form after the wound is healed, when the whole 
treatment must be repeated. 

Punctured wounds of the tendons, and the capsular ligaments 
of the joints, which often happen in the hind or fore legs, should 
be first touched with lunar caustic by making the stick pointed, 



980 



DISEASES AND THEIK TKEATMENT. 



and insert into the wound an eighth of an inch or more; then if 
necessary, poultice. This class of wounds, it is found, do not do 
well by the treatment pursued in other wounds. So long as there 





Fig. 840. 



Fig. 841. 



i3 freedom of the synovial fluid in passing ofi, or any irritants are 
pei'mitted to enter such a cavity, they seem only to aggravate it. 
The point is to first stop this, which can bo done best as directed, 
or by touching lightly Avith a hot iron; keep the animal quiet, and 
use an astringent dressing; if inflammation is excessive, poultice, 
and there will usually be no trouble. 

If clean cut, or the wound is of a character that will permit 
the edges being brought together, as in cases where the skin is 
widely separated, the point is, after sponging out the part so as 
to remove any foreign matter, to bring the edges together, and 
hold them in apposition, if it can be done without the skin slough- 
ing, until healing by first intention takes place ; but this seldom 
can be accomplished, excepting to a partial degree, in the horse, 
on account of the amount of muscular action of the skin ; but in 
many cases it must be i-esorted to, and will enable holding the 





Fig 842. 



Fig. 84.'; 



edges together sufficiently long to enaole the wound to heal with- 



out leaving much of a scar. 



The stitches, which should be from three-quarters to an inch 
apart, can be made by means of a curved flat needle, with silk or 
linen well Avaxed. I give illustrations of different methods of do- 



CUTS AND AVOUN-DS. 



98l 



ing this, which should make it sufficiently plain to be understood. 
First by stitches; or, by approximating the edges by stitches 
passed around a quill or small piece of round twig placed on each 
lip of the wound, termed quilled suture. Or, pias may be passed 
through the lips at suitable distances, and a little tow or thread 
twisted around each, like the figure eight, as shown, or the edges 
may be held together by strips of sticking-plaster. A good 
adhesive plaster can be made by melting about two parts of bur- 
gundy pitch to one of tallow, and spreading while hot upon cloth ; 
cut in strips of proper length and breadth, draw the edges of the 





Fig. 845. 



skin together, and lay on while hot; the parts to be dressed with 
a weak solution of carbolic acid, about in the proportion of one 
part to twenty or thirty parts water. The writer has had excel- 
lent success by the use of calendula, tincture of the garden 
flower called marigold, this should be diluted with about one- 
fourth to one-third of water ; or any good antiseptic may be used. 
The following for this purpose, obtaiaed from one of the best 
practitioners in the country, is included: — 

" In wounds where the muscles are badly contused and lacer- 
ated, the following wash has taken the precedence above all other 
remedies, and by far supersedes carbolic acid. It acts as an anti- 
septic, and prevents excessive granulation. Take 1 oz. white vitriol 
or sulphate of lime, to 16 oz. watei*. Syringe the parts out well 
with the lotion, after being well cleansed, twice a day. By taking 
1 oz. of white vitrei to 4 oz. of water, and penciled on the parts 
with a camel's-hair brush two or three times a day, it will cut down 
the excessive granulations commonly called " proud flesh." 



982 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

For a healing ointment, the following is unrivaled : — 

2j pounds palm oil, 

2 pounds lard, 

2 pound gum turpentine, 

J pound beeswax, 

1 pound calamine. 
Simmer all together over a slow fire, and it will be fit for use. Put a 
little in the wound once a day. Wash the wound with warm water and cas- 
tile soap before applying the ointment. 

This is the favorite prescription of one of the best practitioners 
in the country, and is among the very best for the cure of cuts, 
pricks, and incised wounds in the feet, etc. It sets the wound to 
running yellow matter quickly, and produces a healthy, granulat- 
ing process. 

Turpentine and hog's .lard, equal parts, simmered together, 
with a small quantity of powdered verdigris stirred in, is also a 
fine healing preparation for cuts and wounds. 

The following is also a fine healing preparation, good for old 
sores or injuries in the feet, etc.: — 

1 oz. tincture of myrrh, 

2 oz. tincture of aloes, 
1 pint water. 

To be applied once a day. 

Healing ointment for cuts, galls, etc: — 

4 drachms oxide of zinc, pulverized fine, 
6 grains carbolic acid, 

1 ounce lard. 
Melt the lard and stir in the zinc. Add the carbolic acid and mix thor- 
oughly. Apply once a day. Will cause a healthy discharge from a foul 
ulcer. 

Magic healing powder: — 

5 oz. burnt alum, 

1 oz. prepared chalk, 

1 drachm pulverized gum camphor, 

2 drachms calamine, pulverized. 
Mix, sprinkle on the sore. 

When a wound will not heal, or there is not skin enough to 
cover it, dust on a little of this powder, and it will cicatrize it 
quickly. It is good for galls, saddle wounds, or other parts where 
the skin is thin or broken, providing there is no inflammation and 
condition requiring healing astringents. This is the original recipe 



INJUEIES OF THE TONGUE. ' 983 

for the famous magic healing powder, and has been sold, as a 
great secret, for ten dollars or more. 

A good healing preparation, especially for cuts or incised 
wounds in the feet: Tar and hog's lard, equal parts, melted to- 
gether, removed from fire and stirred till cold. 

The following hoof ointment has been in use in the British 
army, and used by British farriers. It is highly recommended by 
our most eminent veterinaries of this country: — 

2 parts mutton tallow, 

2 parts white resin, 

2 parts barbadoes tar, 

1 part yellow bees wax, 

1 part castor oil, 
Melt the resin and bees wax together, then add the tallow. When 
melted, add the tar and castor oil, then remove from the fire and stir until 
cold. 

This ointment is mostly used for diseased conditions of the 
feet. It is also effectual for the cure of many of the most trouble- 
some skin diseases. Blotches and cracks of the heels, to which so 
many horses are liable in winter, is cured by nothing so readily 
as by this ointment, well rubbed in, after the parts have been thor- 
oughly washed with warm water and soap. This ointment is also 
good for cattle, sheep, and sporting dogs. 

Injuries of the Tongue. 

The tongue is often injured by violence, pulling it out in giv- 
ing medicines, either by the restlessness of the animal or clumsi- 
ness of the operator, often by being tied up with a " hitch " of the 
halter in his mouth ; by running back, he sometimes cuts it nearly 
through. A very common cause also is the use of a severe bit. 

Treatment. — If not too much lacerated, the divided edsres 
should be brought together by the metallic suture, and dressed fre- 
quently with the following lotion : — 

1 ounce alum, 
1^ ounces borax, 
1 ounce honey, 
1 quart water. 

If it is nearly cut across, it may be necessary to remove it, and 
tie the blood-vessels, and dress frequently with the above lotion. 



98^1 DISEASES AND THEIE TREATMENT. 

Tincture of marigold, called coiendula, is so good for bruises 
and cuts of this character, that I think it worth mentioning. 

When in Painsville, Ohio, a horse was brought in by a leading 
gentleman. He stated that the horse had the habit of pulling 
recklessly ahead against the bit, so much so that he could not be 
stopped, offering to wag6r that he would pull eight men with the 
bit. Upon trial, with a breaking bit on, he pulled eight men 
around the ring, causing his tongue to become caught under the 
bit, and was cut fully half off, and the mouth badly bruised, and 
became terribly swollen in a short time. I had a few ounces of 
coiendula with me, which I had obtained to try its effect if op- 
portunity presented. I reduced some of it one-third to one-half 
with water, and bathed the mouth and tongue with it thoroughly, 
repeating two or three times in a couple of hours. 

Being compelled to leave for Madison the same evening, I di- 
rected the owner to bathe the parts with the coiendula four or 
five times a day at least until my return. I remained at Madison 
one day, went to Geneva the next, when I again returned to 
Painsville to fill my engagement there, being absent tliree days. 
Upon examination, I found all swelling and inflammation gone, 
and the tongue entirely healed. 

A horse having lost part of the tongue, cannot drink without 
plunging the head deep in the water. 

To cure cuts or bruises of the cheeks, use inside — 

1 dractim tannin-, to 
Ij ounces borax, and 
3 or 4 parts water. 
Swab the inside of the wound once a day. 

For the outside dressinsf, use — 

1 ounce tincture myrrh, 

2 ounces tincture aloes, 
-h pint water. 

Mix, and swab the parts once a day. 

Wash or sponge the parts with warm water and castile soap be- 
fore each dressing;. 

SoEE Mouth. 
The lips frequently become sore at the angles of the mouth, 



FISTULA OP THE WITHEES. 



985 



from cutting or bruising of the bit. Tincture of myrrh and aloes, 
equal parts, applied to the sore, will soon cause it to heal. 

Fistula of the Withers. 

The principle of treating fistula of the withers and poll evil ia 
the same as for treating other 
deep-seated ulcers explained ; the 
only difference is that they are 
more complicated on account of 
their location, and require, if 
anything, more careful treat- 
ment. 

Fistula of the withers is caused 
by an injury to, or bruising the 
top of, the first vertebra of the 
neck, or the ligament covering it. 
At first there is simply inflam- 
mation, with some swelling, mak- 
ing the part very tender and 
sore ; if this is not arrested or dis- 
persed, matter will form and 
penetrate in different directions, 
around and between the dorsal 
vertebra, and under the shoulder blade, before it comes to the sur- 
face. Consequently the fistula may extend to both sides, and if 
neglected, may seriously involve the bones, in which case the cure 
will be proportionately more difficult. 

At its early stage, when 
there is simply inflammation 

and soreness, cooling appli- 

^^<"^pr" cations, such as pouring cold 
water upon it, or directing a 
small stream from a hose 
^ against it, and repeating, is 
' good. The part can be kept 
wet by the following lotion, 
Fig. 847.-Showing a bad case of fistula. ^^^^ ^j^^^^ ^f ^j^^ inflammation 

does not abate, give a dose of physic and apply an iodine or 
sweating blister: — 




Fig. 846.- 



-Shoulder in healthy con- 
dition. 




086 



DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 




Fig. 848. — Festula of the withers, show- 
ing seton. 



4 ounces salt petre, 1 ounce sugar of lead, 

1 ounce muriate of ammonia, 1 pint common salt, 

2 gallons cold water. 

Lay on a few thicknesses of 

cloth, and keep wet with it. 

Or the following may be 
used : — 

8 ounces tincture of arnica, 
1 quart water. 

If, however, matter forms, 
the sooner the abscess is opened 
the better. When this is done, 
the extent of the injury, or 
of the sinus, if any have 
formed, must be carefully as- 
certained with a probe, or by 
introducing the finger. If this 
cannot be done to advantage, then the pipes must be destroyed by 
the introduction of caustic tents, as before explained for treating 
deep seated ulcers, so that it will make a clean sore; then a de- 
pending opening for the matter to run off must be made by pass- 
ing a seton from the bottom outward, and sponge or syringe 
it out once a day with 
a strong suds of warm 
water and castile soap. 
It must be borne in 
mind that if allowe<' 
to heal over with pus 
or any unhealthy mat- 
ter remaining at the 
bottom, matter will 
continue to form, and 
finally break out anew, 
making, if anything, a 
more complicated con- 
dition of ulcer. The 
point is to see that all 
foreign matter, sinuses, or unhealthy bone, is thoroughly removed. 
Sinuses can be removed either by cutting away or sloughing ofi" 




Fig. 849. — Good method of covering the parts. 



POLL EVIL. 087 

with caustics as explaiaed, and the diseased bone by scraping. 
Syringe out the parts well, first with castile soap and water, then 
with a mild solution of blue vitriol, or carbolic acid and water; 
after which treat as before with digestive ointment, tiacture of 
myrrh, etc., as may be found advisable. 

Soon after my leaving the road, one of my horses, Gifibrd, was 
threatened with fistula of the withers. When able to examine 
the case, I found there was severe inflammation and swelling of 
the parts, which was so painful that the horse would not allow it 
to be touched. The veterinary surgeon in charge had applied a 
sharp stimulant, the efiect of which was intensified by covering 
the parts with a couple of thick blankets. The horse was very 
fat, and there were indications of matter forming, which, as the 
horse was extremely sensitive, would cause great trouble in dress- 
ing the parts, which would be necessary for some time. I ex- 
pressed my fear of this result, but the doctor thought difierently, 
assuring me that he had every reason to believe the inflammation 
would disperse in time. I left, giving him full liberty to manage 
the case in his own way, and was gratified on being informed 
shortly afterward that the inflammation was dispersed, and in 
this way a cure Avas aflected. The serious condition of the case, 
and the success with which the cure was aflected by dispersing 
the inflammation, induced me, for the benefit of my readers, to 
write to the doctor for the details of the treatment used, which I 
here include. 

" The treatment pursued in the management of Giiford was as 
follows: Take two pounds salts, four ounces cream of tartar, mix 
well, divide into nine doses, and give one dose once a day in his 
feed. For the local treatment, I took of the tincture of iodine and 
cantharides, equal parts, and applied to the shoulders every day 
for ten or twelve days ; after which, I used a stronger solution two 
or three times a day for three or four weeks. The case was a very 
bad one." 

Poll Evil. 

Poll evil is caused by being clubbed back of the ear, striking 
back of the head against an obstruction, pulling hard upon the 
halter, or checking the head high, so as to bring undue pressure 
upon the ligaments of the parts, which will be shown by the in- 
flammation and swelling over the first vertebra of the neck. If 
this inflammation is allowed to continue, the posterior part of the 



088 



DISEASES Al^^B THEIE TEEATMENT. 



occipital bone, and sometimes the atlas bone, also the strong ten- 
don over them, will be involved, causing serious ulceration of the 
parts, unless taken in hand promptly. The principle of treatment 

is precisely that of fistula of the with- 
ers. First, cooling applications, a dose 
of physic, and a cooling, opening diet. 
A favorite prescription for dispers- 
ing inflammation of this kind, used by 
an old author, is, — 

2 drackms tartarized antimony, crys- 

alized and finely powdered, 
2 drachms olive-oil, 
1 ounce hoof's lard. 




Fig. 850. — Method of clieckin: 

that is liable to cause 

poll evil. 



Vaseline can be substituted for the 
oil and lard. When properly rubbed 
on the part, this will act as a powerful blister, but does not blem- 
ish. Should matter form, it must be opened to the bottom, and, 
after being cleansed out, ascertain how far matter has bur- 
rowed, or the degree to which sinuses have formed. It is not 
prudent to do any more cutting at this part than simply to 
make a sufficiently deep incision to give an opening for the matter 
to pass off. If sinuses have formed, ' caustic tents are to be intro- 
duced, as before explained, until a clean sore is made. If the 
bones are involved, they must be scraped. Next, a depending 
opening made by running a 
seton from the bottom outward. 
Sometimes the matter extends 
across the neck to the opposite 
side. In such a case, the best 
way is to run a needle across 
between the muscles, and out 
on the opposite side, making an 
outlet on both sides. 

The after treatment is the 
same as for fistula of the with- 
ers, being careful to remove all foreign growth, or diseased bone. 
Dress first with slightly caustic solution, then with digestive oint- 
ment, as explained. 

I will include here a remedy which is claimed to be very ef- 




FiG. 851. 



-The head as it should be given 
freedom in harness. 



POLL EVIL. 



989 



fectual in the cure of poll evil, fistula of the withers, etc. Burn 
corn cobo, and fill the cavity to the bottom with the ashes. It may 
be necessary to repeat two or three times, before a cure is effected. 
The ease with which this can be applied makes it worthy of trial. 
I obtained it under the following circumstances: — 

When in Central New York, during my last tour through 
that country several years ago, a man said to me that he had a 
simple but sure cure for fistula of the withers, poll evU, etc., which 
was a secret, but which he would give me if I would pass him 
into my class. He claimed to be able to satisfy me as to the ef- 
fectiveness of the remedy, by indorsements from several well- 
known citizens who were pres- 
ent. I said, " Bring on yoiu- 
proofs." He brought for- 
ward., among others, a man 
who stated that he had a 
horse which, for two years, 

had been doctored for fistula i ^ jf . -- 5>.-'« aam; /i i 

of the withers of the worst A^ j^ ^^iS^^M. v 
character, without doing any 
good, and at large expense. 
He finally treated the case a;; 
this man directed, and after 
three applications the cure 
was complete. Others stated that the man had treated cases for 
them, with the same success. 

The writer would be greatly obliged to parties giving this 
remedy a trial, if they would report to him the results. 

Since writing the above, I requested a veterinary surgeon of 
my acquaintance to give this a trial, when he had a case offered 
for treatment. A very bad case of poll evil was brought in from 
the country; there were two deep cavities, and he directed the 
owner to fill them with the ashes. Some time afterward, the man 
reported that both ulcers were healed over, but one of them had 
again broken out. Upon inquiry, it was found that instead of 
simply filling the cavities, and leaving them alone without further 
attention, the man kept adding more each day, causing them to 
heal too quickly. 

There is no doubt that, when used as directed, it will be found 




Fig. 853. — Showing seaton. 



990 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

a decidedly effective means of treatment. Its simplicity and safety 
make it deserving of a trial before resorting to regular treatment. 

The following remedy is used by veterinary surgeons of my 
acquaintance as a remedy of great value, and is kept a secret 
The point in using it is, to saturate a little tow with it, and push 
it to the bottom of the ulcer, so that it will touch every part of it. 
In about twenty -four hours the diseased part can be separated 
from the healthy flesh with the finger, from the top to the bottom, 
and taken out, when it is to be dressed as a .simple wound: — 

4 ounces accetate of copper (verdegris), 
4 ounces sulphate of copper (blue vitriol), 
4 ounces alum, 

1 ounce \7l1ite precipitate (white mercury), 

2 ounces nitric acid, 
1 pound honey. 

Diseases of the Eye. 

The eye, or organ of vision, is composed of three tunics, or 
coats, and of the same number of humors. To the external coat 
(sclerotic and cornea) it owes its form. The middle tunic Xi made 
up of the choroid, or vascular coat, cf the iris, or the thin curtain 
fjuspended in the aqueous humor, and j)erforated in the center by 
an opening called the pupil, or pupillary opening, which in the 
horse is of an elliptical form ; in man it is round. The inner coat 
is called the retina, or nervous covering, and is the terminal ex- 
pansion of the optic nerve. 

The humors are three in number, and they serve as reflectors 
of the light. They are : The aqueous humor, crystalline lens, and 
vitreous humor. The last is the largest, and occupies about 
four-fifths of the whole interior of the globe or eyeball. The ap- 
pendages of the eye are the eyelids, eyelashes, and the membrana 
nictitans, generally called the haw, which is situated in the inner 
or lower angle of the eye. It is connected with the different mus- 
cles of the eyeball. By the contraction of the straight muscle of 
the eye, the haw is forced outward, and is one of the beautiful 
arrangements that nature has provided for the protection of so 
delicate and sensitive an organ. The eye is wholly covered by a 
thin membrane called the conjunctiva. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES, 991 

Simple Ophthalmia, or Inflammation of the Eyes, 

Is a common disease among horses, and consists of inflammation 
of the conjunctival membrane covering the eye. 

Causes. — It may be produced by many different causes, and 
perhaps the most common h from the introduction of a foreign 
substance into the eye, as a hay seed, or chaff pickle becoming 




Fig. 853. 

a, Optic nerve; &, Sclerotic; c, Choroid; d, Eetina; e, Cornea; /, Iris; g, 
h, Ciliary circle ; i, Insertion on crystalline lens ; j, Crystalline lens ; k, Crystalline 
capsule ; I, Vitreous body ; m, n, Anterior and posterior chamber ; o, Membrane 
of aqueous humor; p, p, Tarsi; q, q, Fibrous membrane of eyelids; r, Elevator 
muscle of upper eyelid; s, s, Orbicularis muscle of eyelids; t, i, Skin of eyelids; 
?«, Conjunctiva; v, Membrane covering cornea ; x, Posterior rectus muscle ; ?/, 
Superior rectus muscle ; z, Inferior rectus muscle ; w, Orbital membrane. 



lodged in the external covering (cornea), or by direct injury to 
the eyes, as from the blow of a whip, or something of the kind. 
When from a blow or direct cause of injury, but one eye will be 
affected, while if from cold, etc., both eyes will be involved. It is 
also caused by allowing horses to stand in foul stables, especially 
in the summer months, whereby ammoniacal gases are generated, 



992 



DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. 




Fig. 854. 

1, Sclerotic coat; 2, 4, Veins of the choroid; 3, Ciliary 
nerves; 5, Ciliary ligament; 6, Iris. 



proving very injurious to the eye-sight. It proceeds from exposure 
to cold, and is often an accompaniment of catarrh. 

Symptoms.- 

j -jOm^^^^S^^^^^^ "^^^ ^y^^ ^^^ 

weak ; the con- 

junctiva, or in- 
ner lining of the 
lids, inflamed; 
water running 
from the eyes; 
the lids partly, 
if not wholly, 
closed, accord- 
ing to the se- 
verity of the 
case. Bluish or 
white film, the 

result of inflammation, comes over the cornea, extending no deeper 

than the surface, and may vary from a slight cloudiness to entire 

opacity. 

Treatment. — This must, in a great measure, depend upon the 

cause; therefore it is of the greatest importance to make a careful 

examination, especially if but one eye is aflected. 
If there is any foreign matter in the 

eye, remove it promptly, which can 

be done either by means of a feather 

or a pair of forceps. The eye should 

be fomented with tepid or warm wa- 
ter, and the horse kept in a darkened 

stable or loose-box; next, the eye may 

be kept constantly moist by means of 

a sponge or cloth, wet with tepid or 

cold water, and applied over the eye ; 

or better, Goulard's extract, used in 

the proportion of 1 drachm to a pint 

of water. If accompanied by great pain, the following lotion 

should be applied around the eye several times a day : — 

1 ounce watery infusion of opium, 
4 ounces Goulard's extract, 
i2 ounces water. 




Fig. 855. — Capillaries of the 

vascular layer of the 

retina. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 



993 




When the cloudiness or opacity of the cornea is tardy in being 
removed, the eye should be stimulated daily with the following 
coUyrium : — 

5 grains nitrate of silver, 
1 ounce distilled water. 
Apply by means of a feather or camel's-hair brush. 

If he must be used or kept in the sunlight, 
the eye should be kept covered with a blue 
cloth tied loosely over it. It is very important 
to attend to any such form of local inflamma- 
tion promptly ; not only treating properly, but, 
if possible, take him from all work, since, if 
neglected, or the inflammation aggravated by 
heating the blood, the sight is liable to be de- 
stroyed, or run into periodic opthalmia. It is 
somewhat wonderful how much injury the eye 
will recover from, when treated with any kind 
of care. 

Twenty years ago, when driving horses 
without reins was regarded as a great feat, in 
training them to drive in this way, it was sometimes necessary to 
use the whip very severely over the head, when the eye was lia- 
ble to be struck, and so seriously 
injured as to .close it and make it 
entirely white from inflammation 
in a short time. Yet, in every 
case, by bathing with cold water, 
keeping in a dark place, and if 
moved, keeping the eye covered 
with a cloth, in a few days the 
eye entirely recovered. 

Once, while training Gifford, 
one of my old pair of trained horses, he ran incidentally against 
the corner of a stair, striking the eye so severely as to instantly 
destroy his power of sight; the eye was entii^ely closed, and red 
with inflammation. In this case I simply kept the eye covered 
with a cloth kept constantly wet with water, in which was tinct- 
ure of aconite in the proportion of about 40 drops to half a pint 
of water, There was entire recovery within a week. This mild 

63 



Fig. 856. -Good meth- 
od of covering 
the eye. 




Fig. 857. — Reversed view of the above. 



994 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



preparation has proved for me very efficient in reducing local 
inflammation. 

Specific, oe Periodic Ophthalmia, 

Is the most severe affection to which the horse'^s eye is liable, and 
is very common in this country. The parts principally and pri- 
marily involved are the internal structures of the eye, and the 
changes which occur vary in degree to the severity of the attack. 
Causes. — The great cause of this affection can be traced to an 

hereditary predispo- 
sition, always ready 
to burst forth when 
exposed to certain ex- 
citing causes, such as 
injuries of any kind, 
as before explained, 
being kept in very 
dark and ill-venti- 
lated stables, and then 
suddenly exposed to 
the glare of a hot 
sun; and, like simple 
ophthalmia, it may fol- 
low continued expos- 
ure to cold. 

Symptoms.— 
Among the first 
symptoms is a watery discharge from one or both eyes, and on be- 
ing exposed to the sunlight he exhibits a peculiar uneasiness, with 
a partial closure of the affected eye. As the disease advances, the 
eyelids become swollen, and if turned upward, the conjunctiva 
appears reddened and injected; the eye looks smaller, and retracted 
into its socket; the interior of the eye reveals a peculiar muddy 
or turbid appearance, showing floating flakes, and a yellowish or 
whitish deposit at the bottom of the chamber. Fig. 860 is designed 
to show, on an enlarged scale, something of this change. The 
symptoms are very like those of simple ophthalmia, and often leads 
to the supposition that the eye has received a blow or other injury. 
The -above symptoms become more and more aggravated, and 




Fig. 858. — ^Physiological papillae, as seen with the 
ophthalmoscope. 



SPECIFIC, OE PEEIODIC OPHTHALMIA. 



995 



the patient becomes affected constitutionally; the circulation is 
increased, the mouth hot, and the appetite impaired. These symp- 
toms may continue for several days, and then gradually disap- 
pear, or they may be prolonged for weeks, and ead only with the 
destruction of the eye. A prominent and well-marked symptom 
of this disease is its shifting from one eye to the other; in many 
cases, one eye has no sooner recovered than the other becomes af- 
fected. At other times, recovery is rapid, and to all appearances 
the eye looks per- 
fectly healthy ; 
in a short time, 
however, the dis- 
ease returns, and 
often with in- 
creased severity. 
These occur- 
rences or shift- 
ings take place 
in from three 
weeks to a month 
or more. As the 
disease advances 
still farther, the 
eye begins to 
clear, the cornea 
becoming trans- 
parent, leaving a 
slight muddiness 
in the anterior 
part (chamber) of the eye; the pupil diminishes in size, and the 
disease gradually terminates in more or less opacity of the chrys- 
talline lens or its capsule, constituting cataract. 

Treatment.— As a general rule, the treatment of specific 
ophthalmia is very unsatisfactory, but still medicinal remedies are 
found beneficial in palliating the disease. The horse should be 
placed in a comfortable and darkened loose-box, with a plentiful 
supply of pure air. A brisk dose of purgative medicine should be 
administered, and if much constitutional fever is present, ten 
drops of the tincture of a,conite should be given every three hours, 




Fig. 859. — Inflammation of optic nerve. 

a, Papilla of the optic nerve conjested; &, Enlarged 
veins, connected by exhiudation round the papilla ; 



rather 



diminished arteries. 



996 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

until six or eight doses are given. Bleed from the facial vein, and 
follow by fomentations of hot water to the eye. After the third 
or fourth day, cold applications are preferable to hot. The ex- 
tract of belladonna may be applied around the orbits, and also ad- 
ministered internally, in doses of two scruples, three times a day. 
When the acute inflammatory symptoms are somewhat abated, 




Fig. 860. — Generalized atrophical choroidites. 

a, Papilla of the optic nerve, preserving its rosy color ; &, c, Atrophied choroid, 
showing the white tint of the uncovered sclerotic; d, e, Blood-vessels of the retina; 
/, Pigmentary deposits of the choroid. 

the absorption of the effused products should be aided by a stimu- 
lating colly rium, as, — 

10 grains sulphate of zinc, 
1 ounce distilled water, 

Or any of the eje waters advised under that head. 

The following simple treatment, used by a very successful 
practitioner, has by special refjuest been written out for me: — = 



AMAUEOSIS, OE GLASS EYE. 99^ 

" "When the lids are swollen, and not due to any disease, such as 
Pink Eye, etc., but to a cold, and injuries of numerous descriptions, 
the eye should first be bathed off with hot salt water for a few min- 
utes, then turn the lower lid down and drop on the lid and eye- 
ball, with an eye-dropper, the following collyrium: — 

" 10 grains sulphate of atropio, 
1 drachm sulphate of zinc, 
6 ounces aqua rosae, 
" Drop on the diseased eye 15 to 20 drops two to three times a day. 
This remedy is a certain cure in most all eye-troubles. 

" In diseases of the eye due to liver complaint, first give a strong 
cathartic combined with 1 to 2 drachms of calomel, and treat the 
eye as above." 

Amaurosis, or Glass Eye, 

Consists in either partial or complete paralysis of the optic nerve, 
or its terminal expansion, the retina. 

Causes. — Injuries to the brain, causing an extravasation of 
blood upon the deep origin of the special nerve of sight (optic), 
from disease of the internal coat of the eye (retina). It occasion- 
ally occurs as a sequel of stomach staggers or indigestion. We 
have also known it to occur in pregnant mares. Percival men- 
tions several cases of amaurosis occurring in mares with foal, where 
vision was perfectly restored after parturition. 

Symptoms. — The eye has a peculiar glassy appearance; the 
horse carries his head very high, and is continually moving his 
ears, and his action is high, lifting his feet as if he were stepping 
over some obstacle. He is easily alarmed by any noise. The pu- 
pil is dilated, and loses its natural elliptical form. If the glare of 
a lighted candle is brought to bear upon the eye, the pupil refuses 
to contract, thus showing that nervous influence is lost. 

Treatment. — The horse should have rest, and a strong dose of 
purgative medicine given. If supposed to arise from efiusion or 
pressure on the nerve (optic), blisters and setons to the poll are 
recommended, and diuretics should be used. In some instances 
the powdered nux vomica, in doses of one scruple twice a day, has 
been used with advantage. If amaurosis has continued for a 
lengthened period, it is incurable, and treatment in such cases 
would be entirely useless. 



0^8 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

Cataract 

Is the name applied to a deposition of a pearly white substance 
within the eye, and is a very common affection in this country. 
It consists in an effusion of lymph, either on the middle humor 
(crystalliae lens), or on its capsule, and is variable in size, some- 
times not larger than the head of a pin, while in other cases it 
covers the whole lens. 

Causes. — It is generally a result of repeated attacks of specific 
ophthalmia, or it may even supervene upon a first attack; it may 
follow a severe injury to the eye. 

Symptoms. — The eyesight is either partially or completely 
gone, and when covering the greater part of the lens, it is easily 
known by its pearly white appearance. When small, it is some- 
what difficult of detection ; the eye is smaller than in health, and 
the pupil becomes greatly contracted when exposed to light. It 
may be detected by placing the animal in a bright light, and care- 
fully examining the eye; if the eye appears smaller than the 
other, it indicates something amiss with it. He should then be 
placed in a darkened stable, and allowed to stand quietly for ten 
or fifteen minutes before being subjected to an examination. Stand 
in front of him, and bring a lighted candle close up to the front 
of his eye, when any alteration in the structure of the lens can be 
readily detected. 

Treatment on the horse is useless, as when permanently es- 
tablished, it cannot be removed. When the cataract is confined 
to one eye only, it interferes but little with the horse's usefulness 
for ordinary work. 

The cornea is frequently injured from the puncture of a nail, 
allowing the aqueous humor to escape, and perhaps injuring the 
crystalline lens, completely destroying vision. When the injury 
is confined to the cornea, the humor may be reproduced. The 
part should be diligently bathed, either with hot or cold water, and 
the fomentations must be applied several times a day ; and the eye 
supported by means of a wet sponge or cloth, which tends to sub- 
due the acute inflammation and allay the pain, and by keeping 
the eyelids closed, it supports the lacerated parts. 

After a few days it may be necessary to stimulate the part, 



DEOPSY OP THE BELLY. 999 

when any of the stimulating applications recommended for simple 
ophthalmia may be used. 

The membrana nictitans, or haw, sometimes becomes enlarged, 
the result of an injury, or from being implicated in other diseased 
conditions of the eye. Even in its healthy state, we have known 
it mistaken (by ignorant persons) for an abnormal structure, and 
barbarously removed. It is not an unusual circumstance to hear 
persons boast of the rapidity with which they can remove this 
beautiful and most essential appendage to the eye. 

Dropsy of the Belly (Ascites). 

Ascites consists of a collection of serous fluid in the cavity of 
the belly. It is not very often seen, unless in connection with 
some other disease. 

Causes. — It is usually the result of chronic peritoneal inflam- 
mation, or a sympathetic extension, or accompaniment of " water 
in the chest " (hydrothorax), chronic disease of some important or- 
gan contained in the belly, which it invests. "Occasionally it oc- 
curs in conjunction with enlarged liver or spleen. Sometimes also 
from impeded circulation, consequent on abnormal tumors press- 
ing on some important vessels ; and, unquestionably, as in the hu- 
man subject, some animals have a dropsical tendency (diathesis). 

Symptoms. — The animal is observed to be dull and inactive, 
the bowels are costive, and the urine scanty ; he is always thirsty, 
watery swelling appears between the fore legs, which soon extends 
backward along to the sheath or udder; the belly is large, and 
when struck, emits a dull, heavy sound. As it goes on, the 
breathing becomes rapid, and the pulse quick and small, the thirst 
intense, the appetite fails, the enlargement of the belly becomes 
more perceptible, the external swelling greater, and the breathing 
much increased; as death approaches, the pulse becomes impercep- 
tible, and as Blaine remarks, " the peritoneal inflammation pro- 
duces colicky symptoms frequently, and in this way being occa- 
sionally but little disturbed, and at other times very ill, a few ac- 
tive symptoms carry off the poor beast." 

Treatment. — When the watery efiusion is extensive, few 
cases recover ; however, much can be done to arrest it in the early 
stages; the prospects of recovery, of course, depend a good deal 
on the cause of the complaint: when accompanied by hydrothorax, 



1000 DISEASES AND THEIE TEBATMENT. 

it almost invariably proves fatal. The strength from the first 
must be harbored, stimulants must be given from the beginning; 
open the bowels by an active purgative, smart friction being fre- 
quently applied to the belly, or if the swelling is considerable, it 
should be supported by bandages; should the state of the patient 
permit, walking exercise should be persevered in. The following 
ball should be given daily: — 

1 drachm iodine, 

1 drachm iodide of potassium, 
Linseed meal and soft soap sufficient to form a ball. 

Occasional doses of sweet nitre and warm beer should be ffiven. 
Free scarifications with a lancet or sharp knife should be made in 
the swelling. 

Tonics should be more early used than they generally are; a 
very good tonic ball in these cases consists of — 

2 drachms sulphate of iron, 

1 drachm iodine, 

Made into a ball with linseed meal and soft soap. Or, 

2 drachms ginger, 
2 drachms gentian, 

2 drachms sulphate of iron. 
Molasses sufficient to make a ball. 

When medical treatment fails, temporary relief may be ob- 
tained by tapping, which consists in puncturing the belly, in the 
line between the navel and the sheath (or udder), taking care not 
to injure the bowels, or any important vessels, in doing which the 
belly must be tightly bandaged, and kept compressed. 

Anasakca, or Swelled Legs. 

If plethoric, fat legs and sheath swelled. When standing in 
stable without any of the usual symptoms, should first be given a 
strong cathartic, and twenty-four to thirty-six hours after give 
the following powders in the feed morning and night: — 

I5 ounces sulphate of iron, 
2 ounces powdered digitallis leaves, 
6 ounces nitrate of potass. , 
^ ounce powdered nux vomica. 
Make into twelve powders, and give in feed morning and night as above 
directed, until the animal's feces becomes of a blackish color, then stop. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE VEINS. 



lool 



By this time the horse should be well. If the case is weak 
and debilitated, omit the physic and powders, and give good, nu- 
tritious food. In the meantime the horse in either case should 
have gentle exercise. 

It is bad practice to bandage. The application of bandages 
with stimulating liniment prevents the free circulation of the 





Fig. 861.— The leg 

in its natural 

condition. 






Fig. 863.— The leg as 
it appears when "fill- 
ed" or swelled. 



blood, thereby causing not only debility of the capillaries, or small 
blood-vessels, but also irritates the skin. It in all cases gives 
temporary relief, but not a cure. The treatment before given is 
the only one to be depended upon. 

Inflammation of the Veins (Phlebitis). 

Owing to the practice of bleeding horses for all ailments, which 
is still very common among people through the country, phlebitis 
is not imcommon. It consists of inflammation of the coats of the 
vein, involving the surrounding cellular tissues also. 

Causes. — When it occurs, it almost invariably follows the 
operation of bleeding, arising from some mismanagement in per- 
forming it, or securing the integuments after. Rusty fleams, care- 



1002 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

lessness in pinning it up, — as in pulling the skin out, allowing 
blood to filtrate the cellular tissues, — bringing the edges unevenly 
together, or, as in cases we have known, pinning the vein itself to 
the skin. Certain states of constitutional predisposition of the 
veins to take on inflammatory action are said to exist. 

Symptoms. — It is easily distinguished by the inverted edges 
of the wound, which are red and swollen, and discharge thin 
serum, which soon gives place to pus. The vein above the inci- 
sion is hard, hot, and tender, and considerably enlarged. The 
swelling extends upward to the head ; the inflammation extends 
to the surrounding tissues; the side of the neck is swollen; the 
neck is stiff, and the head extended. The systomatic fever runs high. 

Treatment. — The head should be tied up, and almost constant 
fomentations of hot water applied for several days. The lips of 
the wound should be touched with the cautery or lunar caustic. 
A full dose of purgative medicine should be given. When the 
acute fever has subsided, it should be blistered throughout its en- 
tire extent, and repeated if required, the head being kept elevated, 
and his feed placed within his reach. 

These cases often terminate in complete obliteration of the 
Vein ; but in course of time the smaller vessels of the neck enlarge, 
and take the place of the lost jugular. He is not suited to be 
turned to pasture, as the head is apt to swell. He can never after 
be passed as a sound horse. 

Thrombus. 

Thrombus is the name given to a round tumor which some- 
times occurs around the puncture made in bleeding. 

Causes. — It is usually the result of pinning up the wound by 
drawing the skin out, allowing the blood to be extravasated into 
the cellular tissues; also from the opening in the skin not being 
opposite the opening in the A'"ein, or too small to allow the blood 
to escape freely ; often from the tissues being irritated by repeated 
striking of the fleam, or " perhaps from spontaneous inflammation 
and serous effusion in the divided integuments and membranes 
themselves." 

Symptoms. — It is easily recognized by the appearance of a 
round full swelling surrounding the opening a short time after 
bleeding. 



LAMPAS. loos 

Treatment. — It should be re-opened, the coagula squeezed out, 
and the edges of the wound again brought together, and a pad, or 
sponge, saturated with a strong solution of Goulard's lotion, or cold 
water constantly applied for an hour at a time, the pad being 
supported by a broad bandage round the neck. The head must 
be tied up for at least twenty-four hours. It usually subsides in 
a day or two. Should swelling remain, it should be blistered and 
treated as in phlebitis. 

Lampas. 

Lampas is the name given to a slight enlargement of the bars 
or ridges on the palate behind the incisor teeth. It is mostly con- 
fined to young horses, and is a a^\/s^-^~"" S^f!^ 
natural congestion of these parts, ^Mll^^BP^'^^^h^ 
consequent on the shedding of the ^H^^Slj^fl^^^ffiBii'^ 

ease as a natural and salutary ^ ^^E^ ^^ ^Hw iiiwP 
process, which in general is best ^^HHHfllaHp^^ 

let alone, and in which cruel rem- ^ „^„ TItT^^^ .^ ^ .,. 

Fig. 863. — The barbarous method often 

edies, such as firing, should never resorted to, of burning out 
for a moment be thought of. If *^" ^^°^P^'- 

much inflamed, a slight scarification, with sloppy feed for a few 
weeks, will suffice to remove it. , In older animals, similar swell- 
ings are sometimes seen arising from indigestion ; a slight physick- 
ing will generally remove them, without resorting to such outr4 
practices as "cutting out the lampas." 

Diseases of the Skin. 

The skin is a membrane of variable thickness, which covers 
the whole body, and is reflected inward by all the natural open- 
ings, so as to line, by its internal reflections, the eye, the nasal 
cavities, the mouth, etc., etc. Skin diseases in the lower animals 
generally do not prove so inveterate as in human beings. 

SUKFEIT 

Is an affection of common occurrence among horses in the spring 
and summer months, and is an eruptive disease, showing itself in 
the form of small tumors, or pimples, and extending along the 
neck, or over the whole body. 



1004 DISEASES AND THEIK TREATMENT. 

Causes. — It very often proves a sequel of some derangement 
of the digestive organs ; as from feeding for a lengthened period 
on one kind of food, and more particularly if it is of a stimulating 
or heating nature. It is also apt to occur in horses that are in 
high condition when subjected to violent exercise, causing them 
to sweat freely, and then being exposed to sudden chill ; in this 
form it is often met with in colts, when beiag first put to work. 

Symptoms. — It appears suddenly; small pimples or tumors 
arise on difierent parts of the body and neck, and particularly un- 
derneath the mane ; in some instances they disappear rapidly by 
absorption, while in others they burst and discharge a thin fluid ; 
the hair comes out, and small scales form, which are easily pulled 
off. At times this affection proves very irksome and troublesome 
to the horse, causing him to rub violently against his stall, or bite 
at the parts affected with his teeth. In its simple form it appears 
to inconvenience the animal but little, and is generally easUy re- 
moved. 

Treatment. — In the first place the food should be changed, 
and a mild purgative given, as Barbadoes aloes, four to six 
drachms; the kidneys should be made to act freely, and for that 
purpose the following ball may be given daily for four or five 

days: — 

3 drachms nitrate of potass. , 

1 scruple camphor, 

] drachm oil of juniper, 
With soft soap and linseed meal sufficient t(i form an ordinary sized 
ball. 

In inveterate cases, small doses of calomel and opium may be 
used with success. The eruptions should be thoroughly cleaned 
with soap and water, and afterward dressed with a mild solution 
of the chloride of zinc, about twenty grains to a pint of water. 
He should have regular exercise and good grooming, using the 
wisp instead of the curry-comb. Surfeit differs from mange, in 
not being contagious. 

Urticaria, Nettle Rash, Hines, etc.. 

Shown by pimples, or elevations, on the skin, may go and come 
within twenty-four hours, generally due to a disturbance of the 
stomach, such as gastric derangement. In any case not serious, 
the symptoms are as follows: The horse probably not having 



MANGE. 1005 

taten well to his feed (apparently all right), a few hours later the 
whole body will be covered with little erruptions, or elevations, all 
over the skin. 

The treatment for it should be as follows: Give a cathartic, 
and have his body well bathed with strong salt and water. This 
bathing may be repeated two or three times within twenty-four 
hours ; feed lightly, and reduce the amount of grain feed. 

This disease is caused by over-feeding, and want of exercise. 
Is always common to fat horses, and makes its appearance dur- 
ing the spring and summer months. 

Mange 

Is another eruptive disease, and is very contagious, and is caused 
by the repeated attacks of minute 
insects which burrow into the skin ; 
these insects are called acari, and 
can be easily seen by means of a 
magnifying glass. (I include il- 
lustrations of three varieties of 
mango parasites.) 

Causes.- — In the majority of 
cases it is the result of contagion, 
either from coming in direct con- 
tact with a mangy horse, or it 
may be carried by means of his 
harness or blankets. It is also 
generated by uncleanliness and in- ^^<^- 864— Mange parasite, 

sufficient nourishment; the skin, from being allowed to become cov- 
ered with dirt, loses, in a great measure, its highly important func- 
tion in maintaining an animal in health. 

Symptoms. — Generally, the first symptom observed is the an- 
imal rubbing his head and neck against the stall or manger; 
small pimples appear, and the hair falls off; the skin is dry and 
hard, and upon the hardened patches may be seen small red spots. 
A horse affected with mange is kept in a constant state of irrita- 
tion, which soon reduces him in flesh. 

Treatment. — He should be separated from other animals, and 
thoroughly washed with soap and water every second or third 
day, afterwards dressed with the following application: — . 




1006 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



4 ounces linseed oil, 
4 ounces oil of tar, 

3 ounces sulphur. 

Mix, and rub well into the affected parts. 
No. 2. — 4 ounces oil turpentine, 

4 ounces oil tar, 

6 ounces linseed oil. Mix. 

Alternately with the above application mercurial ointment 
may be used. The horse should have a generous diet, and moder- 





FiG. 865. 



Fig. 866. 



Mange parasites. 



ate and regular exercise. In inveterate cases arsenical solutions 
are beneficial, but must be used with caution. All clothing, har- 




FiG. 867. — One of the tests for mange. 

ness, etc., which has been used on a horse affected with mange, 

should be thoroughly cleansed before they are used again. 

The following is recommended by a very successful veterinary 

surgeon : — 

" Take the horse in the sun, and scrub him thoroughlj'' all over 
with castile soap and water, then wash him well Irom head to tail 
with gas water, in which put 2 drachma white hellebore to the gal- 



HEN-LIOE. 1007 

Ion. He must now be put in another stall, distant from the one in 
•which he has been standing. ' Thus treated, it rarely requires more 
than one washing to effect a permanent cure. The harness should 
be thoroughly scrubbed, and put away for six or eight weeks. 
These precautions are necessary to success in this otherwise trouble- 
some disease." 

Hen Lice. 

It is not known to many that hen lice and common human 
body lice grow on horses with great rapidity. Hen lice especially 
are sometimes very troublesome. Prof. Bouley, in 1851, first 
called attention to them. 

Symptoms. — ^When a horse is taken suddenly with irresistible 
itching, sometimes acting half frantic in his efforts to relieve him- 
self by scratching, biting, striking up with his hind feet, and 
stamping, examine him carefully for hen lice. This trouble is to 
be particularly looked for where hens have access to, or roost in, 
the stable. There is liable to be an eruption of very small vesicles 
under the skin, the hair falling off in small, circular spots. In a 
few days these spots are liable to extend. 

When neglected, or not attended to, the horse is liable to lose 
his appetite, grow thin and weak, on account of the constant an- 
noyance and irritation to which he is made subject. 

Treatment. — Remove the cause. Hens should never be kept 
near a horse stable, nor allowed to roost in it. Wash the animal 
with a decoction of tobacco, or staphysgia; whitewash the stable, 
and observe cleanliness. If subject to human lice, and the animal 
is poor, with long hair, clip it off, and wash the animal with a de- 
coction of stavesacre, one ounce of the powdered seeds to a pint of 
water, taking care that the animal does not lick himself for some 
time after the remedy has been applied. — Williams. 

An ounce of arsenic to a pail of soft water, with which wash 
the horse thoroughly in a warm place, is claimed to be a sure 
remedy for destroying either kind of lice. — Somerville. 

Ring -Worm. 

This is not a common disease among horses. It consists in a 
parasitic growth of organic cells in the surface of the skin. Ring- 
worm is a common affection in man, and is said to be communica- 
ble from him to the lower animals. Like other diseases of the 
gkin, it is also generated by uncleanliness, 



1008 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

Symptoms. — The hair falls off on various parts of the body, 
especially about the face, eyelids, cheeks, neck, and thighs, leav- 
ing small and apparently ulcerated patches, which appear white 
and scaly, and have a peculiar tendency to spread; the animal 
loses flesh, and his coat becomes dry and dirty looking. 

Treatment. — Ring-worm, if attended to in the early stage, is 
easily cured. The affected parts should be well cleansed, and 
touched with a mild caustic, and dressed daily with the following 
ointment: — 

1 drachm iodine, 
1 ounce lard. 

Or, in place of the ointment, a liniment composed of — 

1 ounce sulphur, 
6 drachms iodide of potassium, 
3 drachma iodine, 
10 ounces oil of tar ; 
May be used daily. 

ScEATCHES, Mud Fevee, and Ceacked Heels 

Are very common occurrences among horses, especially in the 
spring and autumn months, and the hind legs are oftener affected 
than the fore ones. 

Causes. — They are very often the result of keeping horses 
standing in damp or filthy stables. Clipping the hair from off 
the legs is regarded as a very serious cause of scratches, as it 
leaves the skin so bare that it cannot as readily resist the effects 
of irritants of any kind as when protected by its natural covering; 
but the most common cause is the habit of washing the legs with 
cold water, and not drying them thorouglily afterwards. The 
sebaceous glands in the hollow of the pasterns become inflamed, 
their secretion is increased, the skin cracks and discharges an 
ichorous matter. 

Symptoms. — They usually cause lameness, more or less severe, 
according to the severity of the attack, always most painful for 
the first few steps. The hollow of the pasterns are swollen, red, 
hot, and tender, with transverse cracks which open at every step, 
and often bleed, especially in cold weather. (A good illustration 
of this is shown by Figs. 868 and 869. 

Treatment must be regulated according to the extent and 



CEACKED HEELS. 



1009 



duration of the disease. la* all cases the horse should be kept in 
a dry place, with an abundance of clean litter; the heels should 
be thoroughly cleansed, and if painful, poultices of linseed meal 
applied for several days. If the horse is in high condition, and 
the legs much swollen, a full dose of purgative medicine must be 
given, followed by two or three doses of diuretic medicine, as, — 

3 drachms nitrate of potash, 
3 drachms resin, 
With soft soap siiiScient to make an ordinary sized ball. 





Fig. 868.— a very bad 
case of scratches. 



Fig. 869. — An ordinary 
case of scratches. 



After poulticing, the parts should be dressed once or twice a 
day with the following lotion : — 

6 drachms sulphate of zinc, 
1 ounce acetate of lead, 
1 pint water. 

Occasionally scratches prove very troublesome and difficult to 
cure; if the ulcerations extend, it will be necessary to change the 
dressing, and dry powders, .such as oxide of zinc, calomel, etc., 
should be tried. 

The following is included from a very successful practitioner, 
as his favorite treatment : — 

" First wash the parts off well with Avarm water and soap, dry 
thoroughly, and apply the following ointment twice a day: — 

64 



1010 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



" 3 ounces oxide of zinc, 
2 drachms carbolic acid, 
10 ounces lard. 



Mix. 



" If the case is serious, internal remedies must be resorted to. 
Eirst give a laxative, then feed twice a day one of the following 
powders: — 

' ' l-£ ounces sulphate of iron, 
3 ounces gentian root, pulverized. 
" Make into eight powders." 

The prescription given below was obtained b}^ the writer un- 
der the following circumstances, wdiich will illustrate its value: 

When traveling through Ohio, dur- 
ing the v/inter of 1866, in conse- 
quence of deep mud, Turco's feet 
became badly affected with scratches, 
or cracked heels. In spite of all that 
could be done, the ulcerations con- 
tinued to spread, in connection with 
deep cracks across the heels, Avhich 
would bleed whenever he was moved. 
Persons who had been in the army 
who saw him, stated that his feet 
were affected as were those in the 
army, when they lost their hoofs. 
While trying to drive him one morn- 
ing, a drunken fellow, who intro- 
duced himself as the local horse doc- 
tor, claimed that ho had a remedy 
that would cure the horse completely in tAvo weeks. Having 
no confidence whatever in the fellow, I paid no attention to him, 
but was finally induced, mainly to free myself from his annoy- 
ance, to buy the prescription. Next day he followed me to 
the adjoining town, when he again assured me, if I would try 
the medicine, he would warrant it to cure the case. To get rid 
of him, I finally told him he might go and make as much medicine 
as he pleased, and I would pay him for it. He prepared the med- 
icine, and it was applied by the groom to the horse, as directed, 
that night. Next morning there was such a decided improvement 
that I was encouraged to persevere in its use, and in two weeks 
both legs were entirely cured. 




Fig. 870. — Showiug the legs in 
healthy condition. 



CEACKED HEELS. 1011 

I regard the prescription very valuable, and mention this fact 
as proof of its effectiveness: — 

2 ounces resin, 
2 ounces copperas, 
2 ounces alum, 
1 ounce beeswax, 

1 pint tar. 

Tallow, size of hen's egg. 
Boil over a slow fire, skim off the filth, and add a handful of the scrap- 
ings of sweet elder. When cool, it is fit for use. 

Another remedy, for which much is claimed, is the follow- 
ing:— 

6 ounces sweet oil, 

2 ounces borax, 

2 ounces sugar of lead. Mix 

First wash clean with soft water and castile soap. When dry, apply 
once a day. 

Sometimes a horse will irritate or break the skin by getting a 
rope or strap around the leg, which, if neglected, will cause a 
great deal of trouble by inducing scratches or cracking of the 
skin. The leg should be immediately poulticed with flax seed 
meal, until all inflammation subsides. The horse in the meantime 
should have bran mashes, with a small dose of physic. 

If, however, it has been neglected, and scratches or ulceration 
of the skin follow, it must be treated the same as for an ordinary 
case of scratches. I have found that tying a thickness or two of 
flannel loosely around the part for a few days after treatment, is 
very beneficial. 

Mr. J. F. Beaver, of the firm of Beaver & Williams Livery, Bat- 
tle Creek, Mich., gave me the remedy below, which he claims to 
be the best thing he ever used for cracked heels. That, twelve 
years ago, he bought a very fast trotter that was regarded worth- 
less on account of his heels cracking so badly that he could not be 
speeded. Every effort to cure him previously having failed, a 
careful application of this remedy cured him perfectly. He has 
used it on a number of bad cases since then, always with success. 
He thinks it the best ever used for the cure of cracked heels, and 
would not be without it for one hundred doUars. The prescription 
was obtained of one of the best known and successful veterinary 
surgeons in the country. Mr. B.'s statement was fully corrobo- 
rated by friends who were acquainted with all the facts, and is un- 



1012 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

doubtedly a remedy of great value. I include the prescription, 
with directions, as given me : — 

" The immediate causes of cracked heels, though various, may 
be summed up under the general heads of neglect and mismanage- 
ment. Any very sudden change from heat to cold, or from cold to 
heat, is very likely to derange the secretions of the skin. Hence 
washing the legs, especially with hot water, is very apt to induce 
cracked heels. The use of caustics and active astringents fre- 
quently does irreparable mischief. " Gummy-legged " horses, i. e., 
those whose legs are disjDOsed to fill, are predisposed to cracked 
heels. Though this affection is usually associated with neglect or 
mismanagement, we occasionally find it in animals receiving the 
best of care. Horses well groomed and regularly exercised some- 
times suffer from cracked heels. The j)roces8 of sweating induces 
the affection. The sweat runs down into the hollow of the heels, 
and the evaporation of the perspiration, strongly impregnated as 
it is with the salts of the blood, may possibly lead to disease. In 
regard to treatment, first, the cause, if it can be discovered, must 
be removed. The heels should be washed every night with warm 
water, and carefully enveloped in flannel bandages. Soaj), though 
commonly used along with the water, is injurious, because the al- 
kali contained in it spoils the material thrown out for the repara- 
tive process. Ointments of various kinds are used. The following, 
if properly prepared, is an excellent remedy: Take of oxide of 
zinc, one drachm ; Veterinary Cosmoline, one ounce ; powdered 
gum benzoin, ten grains ; camphorated spii'its, one drachm ; mix 
thoroughly. The mode of application, is a matter for attention. It 
should be gently rubbed upon the cracks with the finger, so as to 
distribute it in a moderately thick layer over the whole of the af- 
fected part, and to insinuate it as much as possible under any crusts 
that may be formed in the disease. Once properly applied, it will 
prevent further crust from collecting, while it serves the several 
purposes of a new cuticle to the abraded skin, a water- dressing, and 
a barrier to the oxidizing action always present in inflammation. 
The heels must not be washed after the application of the oint- 
ment ; they may be wiped with a soft napkin as much as may seem 
necessary, but when the ointment is once applied, it should not be 
removed by washing without good reason. Or the following lini- 
ment may be successfully applied : Take of Groulard's extract, En- 
glish glycerine, and skunk oil, two parts each ; liquor ammonia, 
half a part ; mix. Agitate before using, and apply with a soft 
brush twice a day." 

See also hoof ointment on page 983, which Prof. Gamgee, of 
Edinburgh, Scotland, says is one of the very best remedies for 
scratches or cracked heels. 

Geease. 

This may be considered as an aggravated condition of scratches, 
and is induced by the same general causes. In the early stage, it 



GEEASE. 



1013 



consists in inflammation of the sweat glands, followed by an of- 
fensive, white, oily discharge f i-om the heels. The acrid character 
of the discharge often causes large portions of the skin to slough 
away, leaving ugly sores behind. 

Symptoms. — There is generally more or less swelling of the 
legs, which, if not speedily relieved, is followed by a discharge; 
the hair falls off, and the skin is reddened and inflamed. The 
parts are very painful and hot, and in many cases the least press- 
ure of the hand will make the horse twitch up his leg, and con- 
tinue to hold it up for some time. 
In other cases, when made to move 
about in his stall, or when taken 
out of his stable in the morning, 
he will keep twitching up his legs 
as if he were affected with string- 
halt. Exercise appears to relieve 
the pain, as after being walked 
for ten or fifteen minutes, he goes 
quite free. As the disease ad- 
vances, the skin cracks, and the 
discharge increases, becoming more 
and more purulent and offensive. 
(A good illustration of its appear- 
ance at this stage is given in Fig. 
871.) The swelling increases, not 
being confined to the lieeLs, but in- ^^®- ^'^l- — ^ t)ad condition of grease. 
volving the front of the fetlock joint, and in some cases extending 
upwards to the hock. The cracked condition of the legs and heels 
undergoes a change of structure, and fungoid granulations spring 
up similar in form to a bunch of keys; this is called the "ffrapy 
stage," which may vary considerably in structure, at one time be- 
ing very vascular, bleeding readily when touched, in other in- 
stances it loses its vascularity, and becomes hard and horny; from 
between the crevices of the grapes an ichorous, glairy discharge 
continues. 

There is a small parasite, called sarcoptes hippopodus, which is 
sometimes found in chronic grease, an illustration of which I here 
give largely magnified, from Williams, who says this class of insect 
may be also common to mange. The disease induced by it is called 




1014 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



foot mange. Attention is drawn to a horse with this disease by his 
rubbing his fore legs, or striking constantly with the hind ones 
during the night. The seat of the disease, and the ready detec- 
tion of numerous parasites in clusters where crusts or scabs form 
about the horse's heels, suffice to enable us to diagnose the malady. 
Treatment. — Without cleanliness, aU medicinal remedies are 
useless. The heels should be washed with soap and water every 

day, and the general comfort 
of the animal attended to. If 
the patient is in high condition, 
a dose of purgative medicine 
must be given, and the animal 
restricted to a cooling diet, as 
carrots, bran, etc. ; or, if in sum- 
mer, green food is preferable. 
The following lotion may be 
applied daily, which, in mild 
cases, will generally suffice : — 

30 grains chloride of zinc, 
1 pint water. 

In cases of long standing, the 
hair must be cut off, and the 
parts softened with linseed meal 
poultices; to which may be 
added charcoal, yeast, or bleach- 
ing powder. After removing 
the poultices, dust the parts 




Fig. 872. — Sarcoptes hippopodus. 



over with oxide of zinc powder, or apply the following ointment 
every morning, to be washed off at night: — 

1 scruple acetate of lead, 

4 drachms soft soap, 

4 drachms lard. 

As in other skin diseases, small doses of Fowler's solution of 
arsenic is generally attended with beneficial results. 

TUMOE ON THE SHOULDER. 

Yery often, in consequence of continued chafing of the collar, 
which may be neglected, serious inflammation is caused, some- 
times followed by a deep cyst of matter, beneath the large flat 



TUMOE OK THE SHOULDER 



1015 




Fig. 873.- 



-Showing tumor on elbow 
and shoulder. 



muscle which covers the front of the shoulder. The tissues around 
the part become thickened and indurated so that it is frequently 

difficult to detect any fluctu- 
ation of matter, yet it may 
be assumed, when there is con- 
siderable swelling, that has 
continued for some time, and 
matter exists, there will not 
be recovery until it has been 
removed. In slight cases only, 
a little nut- like induration 
usually forms without matter. 
Treatment.-In cases where 
injury is recent, if the horse 
must be used, change the col- 
lar, so that, if possible, no chaf- 
ing or pressure will be brought 
upon the part. Bathe the shoulder with hot and cold water ac- 
cording to the severity of the case, or two or three thicknesses of 
wet blanket may 
be slung over the 
shoulder. Bathing 
the part thor- 
oughly with arn- 
ica which has been 
reduced about one- 
third with water, 
is a favorite rem- 
edy for chaffs and 
bruises. The fol- 
lowing liniments 
for external in- 
flammation are 
very good: — 

2 ounces ■worm-wood, 
1 quart New England Fig. 874.— A good method of covering shoulder with wet 
rum. cloths or poultices, when seriously chaflEed or inflamed. 

Steep the worm-wood in the liquor, and apply the preparation thor- 
oughly to the shoulder. Or, 




1016 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 



1 ounce Goulard's extract, 

2 ounces vinegar, 

3 ounces spirits of wine, 
l"! pints water. 

Cover the part with two or tliree thicknesses of cloth kept wet with this. 

An excellent remedy for bruises and soreness, caused by kicks, 
etc., is made by putting all the camphor into whisky which it 
will cut or dissolve. Bathe the part thoroughly with this. 

If a tumor forms, open it with a knife, and treat like an or- 
dinary wound; or the matter can be drawn off with a trochar 
and canula, until the sac is reduced, when it can be opened. If a 
solid tumor forms, a straight verticle incision is to be made 
through the skin over the mass, and dissected out, when the skin 
is to be brought together with stitches, and treated as a simple 
wound. 

Tumor on Point of the Elbow 

These are, in most cases, caused by the heels of the shoe when 

the horse lies with 
his fore limbs bent 
under him. 

Treatment. — If 
in its acute stage, 
hot or cold applica- 
tions may be used; 
if very much swol- 
len, bathing with hot 
water will be best. 
When the acute stage 
passes off, apply an 
iodine or biniodide of 
mercury blister ; if 
serum is secreted, it 
is recommended as 
the simplest treat- 
ment, to draw it off 
with a canula and 
trochar, and iuject 
the sac with compound tincture of iodine, diluted with twice the 
quantity of water. Or, open the sac freely at the lower part, and 




Fig. 875. — A good method of covering or poultic- 
ing the elbow when injured. 



SALLEKDEES. I0l7 

heal like a common wound. If a hard mass is left beneath the 
skm, it is to be dissected out, and the skin brought together with 
a couple of stitches, and treat as a simple wound. 

Sallendees 

Is a name given to an eruption on the front of the hock joint, con- 
sisting in a scurfiness of the skin, accompanied by an ichorous dis- 
charge and falling out of the hair. 

Causes. — High feeding without exercise, disorder of the di- 
gestive system, uncleanliness, and bad groomiug. In stallions of 
the heavy draught breed they are a very common affection, and 
prove difficult to remove. 

Treatment. — Dress the parts with mercurial or iodine oint- 
ments, keep the legs dry and clean, and give regular but not se- 
vere exercise, and occasionally a dose of laxative medicine. When 
only slight, the following lotion may remove them : — 

20 grains corrosive sublimate, 
1 pint water. 
Apply twice a day. 

Mallendees 

Is the name given to a similar affection located at the back of the 
knee. The treatment must be the same as for sallenders. 

Saddle and Collae Galls, 

A very common occurrence among horses, are caused by uneven 
pressure of the saddle or coUar; the skin becomes excoriated, and 
the hair falls off. Large inflammatory swellings appear, which 
may form into abscesses, or the skin may become indurated and 
thickened. 

Treatment.- — The parts should be fomented with warm water, 
and some simple or cooliug lotion applied, as, — 

1 ounce acetate of lead, 
1 pint "water. 

If abscesses form, they must be freely opened, and well fo- 
mented or poulticed. When the skin becomes indurated, forming 
what are called sitfasts, they must be dissected out. 

The following is said to be an excellent healing lotion for sad- 
dle or collar gaUs: — 



1018 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

1|- ounces sulphate copper, 
1 ounce sulphate zinc, 
li ounces sugar of lead. 
Put in three pints of water. Swab on the pares two or three times a 
day. Reduces inflammation, and sets up healing granulation of parts. 

Tenotomy. 

As the name indicates, it consists in division of the tendons in 
cases of morbid contraction, giving rise to knuckling over the fet- 
lock, causing the whole weight to be thrown on the toe. It is 
only applicable to cases in which we have no anchylosis of the 
joints. 

The horse being cast and properly secured, the leg is taken out 
of the hobbles, and a rope attached to the foot, which is held by 
assistants. A longitudinal incision is made about an inch in 
length, a little in front of the tendons, and below any point of 
thickening that may exist. A common, small bladed scalpel, or 
the curved tenotomy knife, is passed in, care being taken to avoid 
the artery vein and nerve, and the tendons are divided; the skin 
behind must not be cut, as the ends of the tendon may protrude, 
giving rise to fungus growths. The foot should now be easily 
brought into its natural position ; if not, some force should be used 
to bring it back "by placing the knee against the front or pro- 
jecting part of it, at the same time laying hold of the foot with 
one hand, and the upper part of the leg with the other, and using 
considerable force." This is sometimes necessary to break up ad- 
hesions which may have formed. A stitch or two should be put 
in the wound, and a thick woolen bandage kept constantly wet 
with cold water should be applied for some days. If much in- 
flammation ensues, a poultice should be applied, and some purga- 
tive medicine given. 

If the fetlock descends too much, the heels should be raised. 
If adhesions take place during recovery, a tipped shoe should be 
put on the foot. In from two to three months he will be fit for 
work. • 

In a conversation with Dr. Hamill about this operation, in ex- 
plaining the simplicity and success of the operation, he referred to 
a case in point. To make the matter more clear to the general 
reader, I made the request that he would write out a statement of 



TENOTOMY. 



1019 




the method of treatment used by him, with a drawing showing 
the position of the foot before being operated upon ; also drawings 
of his method of adjustment for holding the foot in position after 
the operation, which are here given: — 

" Tenotomy, or Division of the Tendons. 

" This is one of the simplest, as well as one of the most useful 
operations in equine surgery, as it will restore 
to normal position and strength a limb which has 
been so much deformed by contraction of the 
great flexor tendon of the foot, as to leave an 
otherwise good horse utterly useless. This con- 
traction causes what is known as knuckling, or 
descending forward and downward of the fetlock 
joint towards the ground. 

" The operation is as follows : The horse is 
secured (in some cases throwing down is unnec- 
essary), the leg is flexed or bent at the knee, a 
verj'' small incision is made through the skin on 
the inside of the leg, at the inner border of the 
tendon, where it stands out freest from the ' can- 
non bone.' (See Fig. 876.) Then insert a probe 

pointed tenotomy knife, keeping it pressed as .^ „„„ „^ . 

I * -tu i y -ui ? -J ij,- Fig. 876.— Showing 

close to the tendon as possible to avoid cutting " 

the artery, which may be better protected by eposiiono ^ e 

pressing with the fingers of the left hand towards ^''''* ^^*°''^ ^^'"^ 

the bone, all the op^^^ted upon. 

soft tissues ly- a. Point to enter 
ing in front of the knife for cutting 
the tendon, the tendons. 
Press the knife 

in until the skin is reached, but 
not cut on the opposite side; 
turn the edge towards the ten- 
don, cut carefully backward, 
while an attendant straightens 
the limb, until both tendons are 
severed, if necessary, to let the 
limb out straight. But a small 
wound is best for the healing 
process. And where adhesions 
have taken place, force is re- 
quired to straighten -out the foot, 
with the brace or stay shoe. (See 
Fig. 878.) With a little antisep- 
tic dressing occasionally to the 
wound, recovery will take place early. As a much better ' set ' 
limb can be had with use of stay shoe, it may be added that one can 
be easily made by welding a bar of the desired length on the old 




Fig. 877. — Drawing of the shoe and bar 

used for the treatment of the 

case referred to. 



1020 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATKENT. 

shoe, setting it to the position of the sound limb, then packing and 
bandaging all together just above the j)oint of operation. (See il- 
lustrations below.) 

" The adjustable brace shoe, shown in Fig. 877, is also simple, 
which is taken from the very shoe actually in use on one of the 
worst cases of contraction of the flexor tendon ever in New York 

Cit3^ A horse belong- 
ing to Messrs. Smith & 
McWilliam, Manhat- 
tan G-as Works, N. Y., 
was a large, powerful 
draught horse, be- 
tween fourteen and 
fifteen hundred 
weight, used at very 
heavy work. Through 
some sprain to the off 
hind limb, he kej^t 
walking on the toe for 
about five or six 
months. Every kno^vn 
remedy was tried to 
prevent knuckling, 
both as regards medi- 
cal treatment and 

Fig. 878. — Drawine; of model shoe and bar designed « , n i i j ■ 

^ ,^. ^ .. ■,. . . 01 steel were welded in 

for this purpose, and its adjustment. n j. j? j.t^ ^ fih 

shoe. During another six months, he kept going over, until 
finally he walked on the anterior face of the hoof, with the fetlock 
joint resting on the ground. Fig. 876 shows the position in which 
the foot was carried. The limb appeared to be paralyzed above the 
joint. When he was down, he was quite helpless, had to be helped 
up, and in the end could hardly be made to stand alone. The own- 
ers decided to have him destroyed, although only eight years old, 
but first acquainted their veterinary surgeon. He advised tenot- 
omy, which was performed in the month of March, 1878. In a 
few weeks the horse worked on Mr. Smith's farm at heavy plough- 
ing, and other farm work. Shortly after, he was taken back to 
the city, put to the same heavy work again, when he worked for 
two years, and never afterward showed the slightest lameness, or 
even weakness in that leg." 

In 1865, I purchased a pair of finely matched staUions. After 
being trained carefully, the first time exhibited they were driven 
to a new wagon. In turning short around, the wheel caught into 
the rub-iron, and being on sideling ground, it caused the wagon 
to upset, when the horses got away and ran into their stable close 
by. Upon examination, it was found that the sharp corner of 




TENOTOMY. 1021 

the tire on the fore wheel, in striking one of the horse's hind legs, 
entirely severed the tendons about three and a half to four inches 
above the point of the fetlock, allowing the foot to turn up, and 
the ankle to rest upon the ground. I supposed, of course, the 
horse was ruined, and beyond help. At that time I knew noth- 
ing at all about the treatment of sickness or lameness, and there 
being no veterinary surgeon in all that region of country, was 
consequently thrown upon my own resources. The horse being a 
valuable one, and the injury to him breaking up a fine team, I 
was bound to save him if I could, and succeeded in doing so as 
follows : — 

I had the horse put in slings; next had the shoe taken off the 
foot, to which I had a piece of strong iron 
welded on at the toe. I then took a piece of 
leather, drew it around the fetlock, and fast- 
ened through a loop in the iron, as shown in 
Fig. 879. The part was simply dressed as ah 
ordinary wound. Excessive inflammation was 
kept down by showering with cold water. In 
about five weeks the parts seemed to be entirely 
healed, leaving considerable enlargement; but Fig. 879.— The foot as 
fearing that by giving him entire freedom, the ^* '^^^ supported. 
tendons might be torn apart, I kept him in sliags a little over 
seven weeks. 

I kept a man with this horse night and day, with instructions 
to let him stand upon his feet easily an hour or so at a time, then 
alternating by shortening the slings, so as to rest his weight prin- 
cipally upon them. It was also so arranged, by an extra strap 
behind, as to pull' forward and upward like a breeching. Every 
precaution was taken to nurse, by giving nourishing and easily 
digested food. Indeed, without this precaution, I think he could 
not have been saved, as the weather was very warm, and very 
trying for a horse to stand so long in a warm stable. As it was, 
he was very much emaciated when taken out of the slings, though 
he soon regained his strength and flesh, and seemed to be as well as 
ever. The enlargement gradually subsided, so that at the end of 
a year it was scarcely noticeable. There was at first a little want 
of mobility in the limb, but it soon disappeared. 

I would here add that it would have facilitated the absorption 




1022 DISEASES AKD THBIE TEBATMBNT. 

of the enlargement, to have used a sUght absorbant, with moder- 
ate pressure of a light ■woolen bandage. 

Casteation, 

The following article was, by special request, written by Dr. 
Chas. A. Meyer, who is an expert in the performance of thLs oper- 
ation : — 

" Castration by the Latest Method. • 

" Advances and progress have been made in all branches of the 
sciences and arts, and the art and science of surgery has been one 
of them. The nature, temperament, and disposition of the horse 
is better understood, and the educated veterinarian often risks his 
life for the benefit of stock raisers. We will, therefore, speak of 




Fig. 880. — Miles' Ecraseure. 

the most improved method of castrating the stallion, as it is now, 
and will in the future be performed, with more ease and success. 
The old method of castrating the stallion, which so often injures 
the animal by breaking his back, injuring his limbs, spraining his 
muscles, and frequently disabling him for life, is now prevented. 
The method as now performed is to castrate the animal standing, 
using no ropes to tie his legs, no hard usage, no clamps, and less lia- 
ble to cause tetanus, eryseplas, sclerous cord, etc. The operation is 
as follows : — 

'' Put a halter on the animal, speak to him kindly, lead him to 
a corner, and quietly back him into it. Have the groom hold the 
halter-rope with the right hand, rather short, and place his left 
hand or arm over the face of the horse, and turn the animal's head 
to the left, or nigh side. The operator should have a sharp castrat- 
ing knife, a pair of scissors, and, the most important instrument of 
all, the ecraseure (as shown in Fig. 880), called Miles' Ecraseure. 
The operator should stand on the nigh side, midway between the 
fore and hind legs (say nothing to the horse), grasp the scrotum, 
gently in the left hand above the testicles, now with the knife held 
about 8 to 10 inches from the scrotum, make a slash into, and 
throng the coverings of the testicles, cutting into them proj)er. 
"While the cut is made with the fore fingers at the back of the scro- 



CASTEATION. 1023 

turn, raise the severed coverings, and the testicles pop out. This 
must be done quickly. Then step back, apply the chain of the ec- 
raseure about an inch above the testicle, and quickly tighten the 
chain. When a firm tortion is on the chain, gradually tighten the 
same, -when a peculiar grating sensation will be felt. Do not cut 
clear through the cord with the chain. Then take your scissors 
and cut below the chain, when the testicle wiU fall to the ground. 
Graduall}^ loosen the chain, which should require about half a min- 
ute, and repeat the same operation on the second testicle. You 
will not have any bleeding, and the animal will stand perfectly 
quiet. 

" This was at one time performed by a few men, who traveled 
through the country castrating, and who captivated the stock rais- 
ers by their clever way of operating, and who look upon it as a se- 
cret, of which there is no such thing. The whole secret lies in 
this : The testicles are endowed mth a profuse plexus of nerves, 
and is a highly sensitive organ. By making a sharp, quick incis- 
ion in the testicle, the pain is so intense that the animal becomes 
unnerved, and is under complete control of the operator. In this 
lies the whole secret. In some cases, the stalhon makes a few 
sharp, quick kicks with one leg, but they are so as not to get in 
close proximity with the operator, being straight out behind. 
There is no danger to either the operator or the horse. l!^othing 
is applied to the wounded part, which is to be left alone, and a 
slight swelling will be visible for a few days, which is natui'al, and 
must be to produce a healing of the pai-ts. The percentage of loss 
is very slight, and only then due to complications, such as colds, 
etc. I have never yet seen an animal die from being operated upon 
by this method." 

The Old Method, 

As practiced by an old man named Gould, who is a resident near 
Bath, Steuben Co., N. Y. He is known in that and surrounding 
counties for his success in castrating horses, claiming to have never 
lost a case, and but little swelling after the operation. The writer 
took particular pains to see the old man operate, and learn his 
secret. 

The horse was laid down and tied in the usual manner. He 
washed the parts thoroughly with warm water, and then greased 
with lard. The clamps were of the usual kind. It is the prepar- 
ation he put on the clamps that made his success, he said. 

He put on the clamp, first rye flour paste; on this, sifts on 
equal portions of red precipitate and corrosive sublimate, mixed 
together in powder. In 24 hours the clamps were taken off. 
This method of treatment has been pursued for many years by a 



1024 DISEASES AND THEIE TEBATMENT. 

friend of the author, and he claims, with unfailing success, 
never haviag lost a case, and is followed by no appreciable swell- 
ing. 

Injuries and Diseases of the Penis. 

Causes. — The penis or yard of the stallion more particularly 
is liable to injury, from being kicked in covering, or sometimes it 
gets rajured by awkwardness of the groom in serving mares; also 
from being cruelly struck with a whip or stick whUe in a state of 
erection. Warts and excrescences frequently cover the surface of 
the organ. 

Symptoms, — We may have injuries of more or less severity 
from a slight scratch to deep and severe laceration of its sub- 
stance; or, on the other hand, the blow may have merely bruised, 
without breaking the skin, producing want of power to retract it, 
and often accompanied by enormous swelling of the organ. When 
long out, the glans assumes a reddish-brown colour, and the sur- 
face is cold, with very little sensibility. This is known as para- 
phyTYiosis. Sometimes these swellings subside, but thickening and 
enlargement of the lower part remains, preventing retraction 
within the sheath, proving very troublesome and unsightly. 
Warty excrescences are easily recognized, and may occur on any 
part of the organ. 

Treatment. — Injuries from kicks and blows must be treated 
on the general principles of subduing inflammation. If it hangs 
pendulous, it must be supported by a broad bandage round the 
body, and copious affusion with cold water, or iced water in sum- 
mer, constantly applied; if very hot and tender, accompanied by 
fever and constitutional disturbance, hot fomentations may be 
more applicable; whichever is employed must be persevered in for 
some length of time. Purgatives should be given, and low diet, 
for some time. 

"Unless there is Extensive laceration of the substance of the or- 
gan, nothing more than cold apphcations are required, should it 
prove tardy in healing, goulard lotion, or a mild solution of sul- 
phate of zinc will prove beneficial. When it continues, and the 
tumefaction iacreases, free and deep longitudiaal scarification 
must be made on its surface, and repeated in a few days, if neces- 
sary. Sometimes charcoal poultices are required to cleanse the 
wounds and soothe the part. 



SHEATH AND YAED. 1025 

FOXJLNESS OF THE ShEATH AND YaRD. 

In geldings the penis becomes diminished considerably in size, 
and, from want of the sexual desire, seldom protrude it without 
its covering, the sheath, consequently the sebaceous secretion of 
the glands in the prepuce accumulate, forming a black soft foetid 
substance, with a strong persistent uric odour. This sometimes 
becomes irritating, and gives rise to uneasiness, and should be oc- 
casionally washed out with warm water, and a soft sponge, tak- 
ing care not to scratch or bruise the inner surface, as troublesome 
swellings sometimes ensue. 

More trouble, however, arises from the accumulation of little 
round "beans," (as horsemen call them,) of a soft clayish appear- 
ance, in the cavity in the head of the penis, surrounding the end 
of the urethra; sometimes obstructing the passage of the urine, by 
pressing on the urethra, or even stopping up the orifice itself, giv- 
ing rise to difficulty in staling, and uneasiness. 

The sheath should be washed out with soap and water, and 
the hand, well oiled, should be passed up, and the penis drawn 
out, when the accumulation should be removed, taking care not to 
scratch or bruise the parts. 

Partueition or Foaling. 

The period of gestation in the mare varies from eleven to thir- 
teen months. Usually about ten days before foaling she begins 
to "make bag," the udder enlarges, and a thin milky fluid can be 
drawn from the teats, and a glairy discharge escapes from the 
vagina, giving warning that the foal is about to be dropped. 
When the time approaches, she becomes uneasy, getting up and 
down frequently. Presently the true labour pains begin, the 
womb contracts on its contents, assisted by the diaphragm and 
abdominal muscles; the whole body is convulsed with the effort; 
the mouth of the womb becomes dilated ; the water-bag appears 
and bursts; and when the presentation is natural, a few efforts 
force it out — sometimes enclosed in the membranes, which must 
be immediately removed; and if the cord does not give way itself, 
it being sometimes thick and strong, a ligature should be put on 
it about four inches from the belly, and the remainder cut away. 
In general, mares are best left to. themselves at this important 

65 



1026 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

period, but care should be taken that they do not get into awk- 
ward positions, as against a wall, or the sides of the box. 

Abnormal Peesentations. 

The natural position of the foal at birth is with the head rest- 
ing on the two fore-legs. When in this position, and the parts 
natural, it soon comes away without very much exertion. In 
many cases, however, the foal is found in such positions as to pre- 
vent its escape without assistance. In all cases of protracted la- 
bour, where the pains continue without effect, assistance may be 
required. The hand being raised in temperature by washing in 
warm water, should be introduced to ascertain the cause. In 
some cases the neck of the womb will be found not sufficiently 
dilated, but the foal is found in its natural position. In such 
cases, it may be gently dilated with the hand, or left alone, when 
nature will often overcome it herself. In cases of natural presen- 
tion, we must not be in too much hurry to deliver ; harm is often 
done by injudicious interference. One or both fore-legs may be 
doubled back, with the head presenting. In this case, push it 
back, and pass the hand down the leg if possible; get them up 
into the passage, either by the hand or looped cords passed round 
the fetlock, when, by slight traction, it will generally be brought 
away. The legs may be presented in the passage, and the head 
either doubled down under the brim of the pelvis, or turned over 
the shoulder down on the flank. In this case, it should be pushed 
bodily back, and the head sought for, when a loop must be placed, 
if possible, on the lower jaw; it must now be pushed back, whUe 
the head is to be pulled forward, and brought into the passage. 
This case is often very troublesome, from the difficulty sometimes 
experienced in reaching the head. It is sometimes necessary to 
remove one of the legs by cuttiag the skin round the fetlock, and 
with the embryotomy knife dividing the skin of the leg as far as 
the shoulder, and separating it with the fingers, when it can be 
removed. A cord should be attached to the loose skin to aid in 
traction, when the head can in most cases be reached. We have 
had occasion to remove both legs in the same manner before de- 
livery could be effected. 

Sometimes the buttocks and taU are only to be felt ; this is 
often a troublesome case, especially when the legs dip under the 



BLISTEES. 1027 

pelvis. It must be pushed well in, and the hind feet, if possible, 
secured and brought into the passage. Often, however, it is very- 
difficult to do, when, as recommended by Prof. Dick, " the con- 
tents of the abdomen must be removed at the rectum ; the pelvis 
divided at the symphysis, when a cord being attached, and force 
used, the hind legs will get into the place of the viscera, and the 
quarters collapse so as to allow of extraction." The whole four 
feet may be presented in the passage ; the simplest way of deliver- 
ing in this case is to feel for the hocks, and slip loops on* the hind 
feet; and by pushing back the fore ones, it may be removed by 
the hind legs. 

It is impossible to describe minutely the details of procedure 
in these cases, as, from difference in collateral circumstances, such 
as size, age, length of time she has been in labour, swelling of the 
parts, etc., etc., different plans of treatment must suggest them- 
selves to the operator. The principles to be observed are these : 
endeavor to get it into its natural position, in which position it is 
easiest delivered ; failing in that, to get it into the next easiest, 
viz., the hind legs first — that impracticable, to remove those parts 
of the foal which offer most resistance, care being taken in so do- 
ing not to bruise or lacerate the mare. In no circumstances are 
tact, coolness, and steady perseverance more required than in a 
protracted case of labour; however, the dictates of humanity no 
less than professional duty demand that we shrink not from the 
most difficult. 

Blisters. 

Before a blister is applied, the hair must be cut off from the 
part as closely as possible. The blistering ointment is then to be 
well rubbed into the part with the hand ; and after this has been 
continued about ten minutes, some of the ointment may be 
smeared on the part. In blistering the legs, the tender part of 
the heel, under the fetlock joint, is to be avoided; it may be better 
to rub a little hog's lard or vaseline on it, in order to defend it 
from any of the blisters that may accidentally run down from the 
leg. When the legs are blistered, all the litter should be removed 
from the stall, and the horse's head should be carefully secured, to 
prevent his rubbing the blistered parts with his nose. On the 
third day he may have a cradle put around his neck, and be 



1028 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

turned loose into a large box, or a paddock, or an orchard. In a 
field he would bo apt to take too much exercise. About a week 
or ten days after the blister has been applied, the parts should be 
oiled with some olive-oil or vaseline. If flies are troublesome, and 
make the horse restless, they may be kept off by the tar ointment, 
or tar and train oil mixed. 

Counter Irritants. — Their Uses, How to Employ 
Them, etc., from Williams. 

" In all painful affections, warm fomentations or poultices must 
as a rule be prescribed. In the course of some days, however, if 
the pain is subsiding, and the j)art8 seemingly relaxed, much bene- 
fit will be obtained by making a change to cold, mild astringents 
and bandages, to promote absorption of the exudate. 

" The congested caj^illaries may be relieved by local bleeding, 
but the parts tijjon which such an operation is performed are very 
few, except about the coronet or the foot. An incision into the 
coronary plexus will reach the vessels at once; the utility of this 
is, however, very doubtful, except in rare cases. Bleeding at the 
toe, although much practiced by many, is not to be commended. 

" Purgatives are very useful during the first stages of lameness, 
reducing the inflammation, A full dose of aloes may be given with 
advantage, the diet being properly regulated and restricted to bran 
mashes, a little hay, and the water to be chilled. 

" After the acute signs of inflammation have subsided, if the 
lameness still remains, the application of the so-called counter irri- 
tants will be rendered necessary. These consist of rubefacients, 
blisters, setons, and the actual cautery. The actions of these reme- 
dies differ only in degree, in rapidity, and in perfoi'mance, not in 
the nature of the exudation which they produce. Without enter- 
ing into any speculative discussion upon the question, superficial ir- 
ritants are beneficial in all cases of chronic lameness, whether it be 
caused by disease in bone, cartilage, ligament, tendon, or any other 
structure; and they are often more decidedly beneficial when ap- 
]">Ued to the diseased structure itself than to the skin covering it, 
For example, a lameness arises from bone spa.vin; its eradication is 
much more certain and rapid when a pointed cautery is applied to 
the diseased bones than when the hock is fired in the ordinary 
way. Again, a spavin has been fired and blistered repeatedly 
without benefit; the bones are "punched " (a barbarous operation, 
and only to be performed in^ extreme cases), violent inflammation 
is excited in the diseased bones, which for a time increases the 
lameness; but this gradually subsides, and the original lameness is 
found to be removed. 

" I am of the opinion that the curative action of external irri- 
tants is not due to their producing metastasis or counter irritation; 
but that they excite within the originally diseased structure a re- 



COUNTEE 1E111TANT8. 



1029 



parative inflaimnation, partaking in its nature of what is described 
by Virchow as the "secretory inflammation," which, superseding 
the original diseased process (whether that be inflammation pure 
and simple or its effects, ulceration, caries, or a formation of a low 
form of fibrous tissues), excites the formation of reparative material 
by which the breaches are united, ulcers healed, and diseased action 
removed. 

" To illustrate this view, I. will bring forward two familiar ex- 
amples: 1. The healing of a sinus or fistula, after the application 
of a blister, or of the actual cautery to the skin contingent to it; 
and 2. The removal of phlebitis (inflammation of the vein in the 
neck after bleeding) by a blister. 

" In the first instance, we find that a sinus heals after a blister 
or cautery, by the 
formation of an or- 
ganizable exudate, 
which completely 
fills up the cavity of 
the sinus; and, in the 
second, we find that 
a blister assists in the 
obliteration of the in- 
flamed vein, not by 
removing the inflam- 
mation from it, but 
by promoting the 
formation of a largo 
quantity of repara- 
tive lymph, and hast- 
ening its further dc- 
Velopment into fi- Fig. 8 81. -The Aspirator.- 

brous tissues, by which the vessel is transformed at the inflamed 
part into a fibi'ous cord. 'Now if the curative action were due 
to the removr.l of inflammation, we should find that in the first 
case the relief would be only of a temporary nature, the sinus 
would still remain, being generally the cause, and not the effect 
of the morbid action; and in the second, that the inflammation 
being removed from the coats of the veins, the vessel would, upon 
removal of the clot, become pervious. But such is not the case. 
Let the clot be removed ever so often, it is sure to form again, and 
nothing has the power of overcoming the inflammation of the ves- 
sel until it has bceii transformed into an organized cord, a process 
most materially hastened by the application of a blister. 

" I think it may therefore be accepted that external irritants 
■ — whether they be simply rubefacients, producing a mere redness 

* This cut belongs in article on windgalls, page 778 ; but on account of not be- 
ing available vrhen the matter for that article was put in type, it is inserted here. 
It was furnished by John Reynders & Co., Manufacturers of Surgical and Veterinary 
Instruments, etc., 3j)3 Fourth Avenue, N. T. 




1030 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

of the skin, vesicants or blisters, which cause elevations of the cuti- 
cle by fluid underneath it, or cauterization and setons, "which pro- 
mote the suppurative action — remove lameness by assisting nature 
in a process of rejDair. 

" Rubefacients may bo employed in the less severe forms of 
lameness, in sprains of tendons, or in slight affection of joints, along 
with rest and fomentations, after the more acute symptoms have 
passed away. 

" It is usual to apply blisters in all cases of some standing, when 
organic changes in the parts involved are suspected. Before a blis- 
ter is applied, the hair should be clipped from the part, which, if 
dirty, ought to bo washed, and when dry, the blister to be applied 
with smart friction for about ten minutes. To obtain the full effect 
of a blister, a quantity of ointment is to be thickly laid on after the 
rubbing in ia completed. 

" The best agent is cantharides, in the form of acetate, tincture, 
or ointment, to the limbs, the ointment in preference ; one j)art of 
cantharides to twelve parts of lard or palm-oil. If prepared with 
a temperature equal to the boiling point of water (212°), it willhe 
sufficiently strong and will never hlemdsh. It is a mistake to think 
that the powdered flies should be mixed with the vehicle when, it 
is neai'ly cold. An ointment so prepared will require three times 
the quantity of cantharides. The heat melts the cantharidine. 

" Hints upon hlistering generally. — ISTo more than two legs are to 
be blistered at one time, and three weeks at least must be allowed 
to elapse before the others are blistered, and between each re-ap- 
plication. It is bad practice to blister extensively in very hot 
weather ; and it is a mistake to suppose that blisters to the loins 
and back are more apt to irritate the urinary organs than when 
applied to any other part of the body, provided that it be carefully . 
and properly done. 

" The evil results of blistering are: 1st. The production of 
strangury, by the absorbed cantharidine irritating the urinary 
passes. This is a very rare occurrence, provided the blister has 
been applied to a moderate extent of surface; but if four legs, or 
even two, be extensively blistered at one time, the occurrence of 
such may be laid down to the indiscretion of the practitioner. In 
some cases, however, very moderate blistering may be followed by 
strangury, and when it does occur, it is best treated thus: First 
wash the blistered surface with warm water, in which a little alkali 
has been dissolved; dress it with oil, give the animal demulcents to 
drink, such as cold linseed tea, and administer a few doses of opium 
and bicarbonate of soda. 

" 2d. The production of a considerable amount of nervous irri- 
tability, fidgetiness, quickened pulse, and injected mucous mem- 
branes, with loss of appetite. These symptoms are due to a nerv- 
ous temperament; and if not very severe, had better not be inter- 
fered with. Should they become alarming, the animal must be 
treated as in the first instance; the fomentations being continued 



COTJKTEE lERITANTS. 1031 

for a longer period to the legs. It may be here mentioned that fo- 
mentations should not be hot, but soothingly warm. 

" Sometimes blisters, no matter how carefully applied, produce 
excessive swellings of the limb or limbs, with a tendency to sup- 
puration and sloughing of the skin. These results are generally 
due to the animal's being in bad health, and in a condition tending 
to anasarca or to erysipelatous disease. The treatment must con- 
sist of purgatives or diuretics, as the case maybe; fomentations, 
astringent lotions, and gentle exercise, as soon as the pain is suffi- 
ciently subsided to admit of the animal's being moved about. In 
many cases the swellings involve the sheath of the penis, and the 
under surface of the abdomen. Punctures are verj^ useful in such 
parts, by allowing the escape of the contained fluid. I have seen 
tetanus arise from a very limited blister to one fore leg. 

" If the effects are not sufficiently apparent in about thirty 
hours after the blister has been applied, a very little more, or what 
is remaining on the skin, which may be sufficient, should be gently 
rubbed in ; and in about forty-eight hours after the application the 
part is to be Avashed, and eveiy trace of the blister removed ; a lit- 
tle oil being now applied, or, what suits perhaps better, an emulsion 
of sweet-oil, carbonate of potash, and water. It is a mistake to 
keep the parts soft too long ; the eschars should be allowed to ac- 
cumulate, and to desquamate gradually. 

" Firing, or the application of the actual cautery, is a much 
more severe irritant than a blister, and often removes pain very 
rapidl}^ when repeated blisters have failed to do so. In bone dis- 
eases, and in all cases of chronic lameness, it is of great benefit, and 
seems to act by powerfully exciting the healing process in the part 
diseased. The firing may be in lines, and superficial, the transverse 
method being the least calculated to blemish ; or it may be in 
points, and deep, by pyropuncture (see treatment for spavins, 
ring-bones, etc.) into the diseased structure. This latter method 
is 'the more easily performed, and the more effective. 

" ISTothing is more calculated to dispel the idea of the correct- 
ness of the counter-irritation theory than the dissection of a part 
which has been recently fired (say three days after the operation), 
when it will be found that the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and the 
bones, — when they are superficially situated, such as those of the 
hock, pastern, etc.,-^are involved in the inflammatory action so 
produced. Thus a bone spavin lameness is removed by the inflam- 
mation excited by the cautery in the diseased bones, providing a 
supply of material for the purpose of uniting them together into one 
immovable mass ; or as in caries of a ginglymoid joint, for the re- 
pair of destroyed structure, as already explained. 

" Setons act very satisfactorily in some cases of bone diseases, 
especially in those accompanied by external heat of the part; they 
produce a dischai'ge of pus, and their action can be continued for 
a much longer time than that of blistering or firing. In tendenous 
or ligamentous lamenesses, with much thickening of the integu- 
ments and subcutaneous structures, setons should not be employed, 



1032 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

as they leave much additional thickening, and are not so effectual 
as the actual cautery." 

Hot Fomentations. 

This is so often advised for acute inflammation, sprains, etc., 
notwithstanding the simplicity of its application, I think it advis- 
able to give such details as will serve to aid the owner in its use. 
The use of hot and cold water alone, intelligently applied, will be 
found a very safe, simple, and effective remedy for allaying in- 
flammation, pain, and congestion. 

The principle is to apply all the heat the animal will bear, but 
not enough to scald or burn. It is best accomplished by wring- 
ing through a common clothes wringer a woolen blanket (a com- 
mon horse-blanket wUl do) out of boiling hot water, fold it quickly 
into four or more thicknesses, and place it over the affected part. 
Cover the hot cloth well with dry blanket. If continued or re- 
peated long enough to relax the skin, cold is to be applied to tone 
it up, when, if necessary, the heat is to be again continued. 

For Acute Pleurisy. — To relieve the pain, apply hot fomenta- 
tions over the seat of the pain, from one to three hours, or till the 
pain subsides. The fomentations should be renewed every five or 
ten minutes, and at the conclusion should be followed with 
a heavy, cold compress for about ten minutes. Ice compresses in- 
stead of the fomentations will sometimes afford relief when all 
other means fail. After ice-compresses have been applied for an 
hour, they should be followed by a hot fomentation, and then apply 
the cold compress again until the paia subsides. 

For Golic. — Apply hot fomentations sufficiently large to cover 
the abdomen or belly of the horse, in quick succession, for an 
hour or so, till relief is obtained. And at the same time give a 
copious injection of hot water into the rectum, of from 110 to 118° 
F. A gallon or two of water should be used for this purpose. 
Any kind of a syringe will do, but the Fountain Syringe is much 
to be preferred above all others. Sometimes the fomentation is all 
that is necessary to give relief, and sometimes injections alone will 
give great relief. 

For Strains and Sprains. — Apply hot fomentations vigor- 
ously, changing them every five or ten minutes till the pain and 
swelling subside. Apply a cold compress for the last application, 



HOT FOMENTATIONS. 1033 

and the compress can be left on continuously, but it should be cov- 
ered with the woolen cloth. 

For a Gold. — If the cold is located in the head, a fomentation 
can be applied to the head, and should be extensive enough to 
cover most of the neck. This can be done by folding a blanket 
lengthwise about four thicknesses, and just winding it spirally 
around the horse's head so as not to cover the eyes ; and if one 
blanket is not sufficient, another blanket can be wound around 
the head and down the neck in the same manner. The fomenta- 
tion should be well covered with a dry blanket, and if it is so hoo 
that the horse cannot bear it, the hot folded blanket, after being 
wrung out of hot water, should be folded in a dry one, so as not 
to burn him. In this case, it is not necessary to add another dry 
blanket over the fomentation. 

If the cold seems t5 be settled all over the horse, several blan- 
kets may be joined at the edges, and thrown over the horse so 
that the edges hang down to the ground, forming a kind of tent 
for the horse to be under. The edges of the blanket behind and 
before the body can be pinned together. Then place a vessel with 
hot water under the horse, and a hot brick or hot flat-irons can 
be thrown into the water to produce a vapor, which should be 
continued until the horse is in a profuse sweat. Then he can be 
sponged off, beginning with cool water, and ending with cold wa- 
ter, or sprayed with cool water, then with cold ; or the water can 
be poured over the body, if it is not convenient to spray. The an- 
imal should then be warmly blanketed, and in the course of 20 
minutes if he does not sweat, or has ceased to sweat, should then 
be dried thoroughly by wiping with cloths and rubbing with the 
hand, until perfectly dry. Care should be taken that the tempera- 
ture of the room in which this treatment is given should not fall 
much below 50°, and would be better to be about 65° or 70°, and 
there should be no draught. The treatment can be made much 
more effective by placing the horse's feet into as hot water as he 
will bear, while the vapor is being given. 

Another method is a hot-blanket pack, which is sometimes 
more convenient, and is just as effectual. The hot-blanket pack 
can be given by wringing a heavy blanket out of hot water, and 
folding it; then folding it into a dry blanket and putting it 
around the body of the horse. It will require at least two such 



1034 I>1SEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

blankets to reacli over the body of the horse. He should 
then be very heavily blanketed, so as to keep the heat of the hot 
cloths in, and produce perspiration. The hot-blanket pack should 
be followed by cool sponging, spr-aying, or pouring, the same as 
after the vapor bath. The after treatment should be the same as 
after the vapor bath. 

Poultices. 

The simplest and cheapest poultice can be made by pouring 
boiling water on about a peck of bran, so as to make a very thin 
mash ; or linseed meal could be added to it. Boiled turnips make 
a good poultice, which would also be improved by the addition of 
a little linseed meal. 

Poultices are generally too small, confined, and dry. A poul- 
tice should be made large, so as to cover the parts thoroughly, and 
keep them moist. When a horse gets a nail in the foot, or it is 
calked, or when there is any local inflammation from an injury, 
covering the parts with a warm poultice will bo found a very sim- 
ple and good way of keeping down inflammation. If it is desired 
to poultice the leg for a sprain of the tendons, a flannel bag can 
be made for the purpose, or an old pant's leg, if convenient, can be 
pulled up over the leg; tie a string loosely around the foot below 
the fetlock, and fill the bag with the poultice above the knee 
which can be kept up by tying a piece of listing, or a strip of flan- 
nel over the shoulder. Poultices are also useful applications for 
promoting suppuration in inflamed tumors; and when thero is ir- 
ritation or inflammation in the heels, such as scratches, cracks, or 
grease. The poultices commonly employed for these purposes are 
of an emollient character. The following is a standard formula; — ■ 

1 pound linseed meal, 

2 quarts bran, 

2 to 4 ounces hog's lard. 
Boiling water enough to make a soft poultice. 

Or, turnips thoroughly boiled and mashed, any quantity, lin- 
seed meal enough to form the poultice. A good poultice can be 
made of carrots, grated finely. Either of these simple poultices 
may be converted into an anodyne poultice by the addition of 
opium ; into a fermenting poultice by the addition of yeast, and 
by substituting oatmeal for linseed meal ; into an astringent poul- 



THE PULSE. 1035 

tice by the addition of Goulard's extract, sugar of lead, or pow- 
dered alum ; and into a detergent poultice by the addition of white 
or blue vitriol. 

In obstinate cases of virulent grease, where there is much pain, 
and a f?tinking, dark colored discharge, and especially when emol- 
lients are found ineffectual, the detergent poultice has quickly 
cured the disease, and in such cases even a solution of corrosive 
sublimate has been used with the best effect. But emollients 
should always be fairly tried, and some diuretic medicine given. 

The Pulse. 

The arteries are the vessels which convey the blood from the 
heart to the system. " The blood nowhere passes through an ar- 
tery so rapidly as it is forced into it by the ventricles of the heart, 
on account of the resistance offered by all the tubes against which 
it is forced. The consequence is, that when it receives the wave 
of blood, both the diameter and the length of t^e vessel is in- 
creased, and this is followed by a recoil and recovery of its previ- 
ous position, owing to the elasticity of the tube; these operations 
constitute the pulse, which is felt when the finger slightly com- 
presses an artery." — Bennett. Hence the pulsations of the artery 
correspond with the beatings of the heart, and consequently indi- 
cate the irritability of that organ, or the system generally. The 
average pulse of the horse is from thirty-two to forty -two beats 
per minute. The smaller and more nervous the horse, the quicker 
the pulse; while the larger and coarser bred, the slower. The 
most convenient places to feel the pulse are at the arm, on the 
inside where the artery (radial) passes over the head oi! the 
bone, or on the under part of the lower jaw. It can be felt 
easiest and best at the lower jaw, a little behind, where the sub- 
maxillary artery comes up and winds round to gain the cheek. 
(See Ko. 1.3, in Fig. 882.) Pass the finger down the jaw up near 
the neck on the inner edge, and a cord-like ridge will bo felt, 
which, upon gently and firmly pressing it with the end of the fin- 
ger, will plainly be felt to throb and beat. (See Fig. 883.) 

'* Frequent reference is made to the state of the pulse in diflfer- 
ent diseases, such as colic, pneumonia, laminitis, etc., etc. Hence 
it should be studied carefully. For example, during the early 
stage of colic, the pulse will be hardly affected, and the ears and 



1036 



DISEASES AND THEIE TEBATMENT. 



legs will be natural in temperature; while in inflammation of the 
bowels the pulse will be quick and wiry, ears and legs cold, etc. 
In fever it is quick, wiry, and light, indicating the extreme or not 
of disturbance in the circulation." — Youatt. 

There are four general principles, or points, which must in- 
fluence the course of treatment in all diseases. If there is high 




Fig. 882. — Showing the pulse. 
1 and 12, Carotid artery and its branches; 13, Submaxillary artery. 



temperature, 102 to 107 (107 to 108 is fatal), the first point is to 
reduce the fevei'. In first stage, aconite internally is best; exter- 
nally, wrapping the body and extremities to equalize the tem- 
perature. 

The heart's action is the next great point. 84 to 40 beats to 
a minute is normal; below that indicates debility. If it is a quick, 
wiry, or thready pulse, it indicates inflammation oi the intestines 



THE PULSE. 



1037 



or abdominal organs, which calls immediately for sedatives. Take, 
for example, general colic treatment. Usual colic dose: — 

1 to 2 ozs. laudanum, 

1 to 2 ozs. sweet spirits nitre, 

1 to 2 drachms tincture belladonna, 

I to a pint of linseed oil. 

If tympanitis (jflatulent colic), would add to the above one- 
half to one ounce tincture Jamaica ginger, and one-half to one 
ounce aromatic spirits of ammonia, with a few drops tincture nux 
vomica, every one-half 
hour, until relieved. 

Quick and feeble pulse 
indicates the lungs being 
involved. Moderately 
rapid, and throbbing or 
bounding pulse would in- 
dicate inflammation of 
the extremities, such as 
laminitis, and to be 
treated as such. While 
an irregular pulse-beat, 
whether fast or slow, 
would indicate the heart 
itself being involved , 
which is to be treated 
by giving medicines that act upon the heart, such as alcoholic 
stimulants, belladonna, and digitallis. The first two stimu- 
late the heart, the last is a heart sedative. Of alcohol, brandy, 
etc., give 2 to 4 ounces, with same quantity of water, for a dose; 
tincture of belladonna, 10 to 12 drops, which may be given in 
small doses every hour for an unlimited time, or in 1 to 2 drachm 
doses twice a day, not to be longer than a few days. Digitallis 
being a heart sedative, must be used with greater caution ; from 
15 to 60 drops of the tincture may be given twice a day for two 
to four days, or until the heart's action becomes slower. This 
drug has accumulative properties — that is, it may not seem to act 
for some time ; and then act with such great force as to be fatal. 
— Hamill, 




Fig. 883.— Feeling the pulse. 



1038 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

Giving Balls. 

Medicine is most commonly given to horses in the form of a 
ball or bolas, the size of which should not exceed that of a hen's 




Fig. 884. — Bad method of giving ball. 

egg. Though named a hall, it is generally rolled up in a cilindri- 
cal form, about one inch in diameter, and two and a half in length. 
In giving a ball, the horse's tongue is drawn out on the off or right 
side, and held firmly with the left hand, while with the right the 




Fig. 885. — Approved method. 



ball is quickly passed over the tongue into the pharynx, or top of 
the gullet. The hand should be kept as near to the roof of the 
mouth as possible in giving the ball; there will then be much less 
danger of being wounded by the teeth. The moment the right 



GirmG BALLS. 



1039 



hand is withdrawn 
from the mouth, the 
tongue is let loose, 
and the ball generally 
swallowed. 

Balls cannot be 
conveniently given 
unless wrapped up in 
paper; but for this 
purpose the softest 
and thinnest should 
be chosen. In hold- Fi.. 886.-After giving baU. 

ing the tongue with the left hand, while the ball is intro- 
duced, great care is required, as the rough and violent manner in 





Fig. 887.— Giving a drench. 

which this is sometimes done often injures the tongue, or lacerates 
the under part of it. The muscles by which swallowing is effected 



1040 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 

may also be seriously injured in this way. In violent colds, 
strangles, etc., there is often so much soreness of the throat as to 
render swallowing very painful and difficult ; in such cases, neither 
halls nor drenches should be given, as they are sure to do mischief 
by irritating the throat, and may even suffocate the animal by 
getting into the windpipe. 

Physicking. 

It is always best, if possible, to prepare the horse for physic by 
giving a bran mash twenty -four hours previously, as the medicine 
will act more favorably, and there is less danger of superpurga- 
tion. Five drachms of aloes (Barbadoes aloes are always used for 
horses) will act as forcibly after a mash as seven without. Again, 
the quantity of physic should be adapted to age and size. The 
rule is to give one drachm for each year up to seven. Eight 
drachms is the largest given at one dose. 

PHYSIO BALL. 

7 drachms Barbadoes aloes, pulverized, 
4 drachms bar soap, 
1 drachm ginger. 
The usual way is to mix the ingredients in this proportion, then reduce 
to the weight intended, and give. 

For Alternative Balls simply give from one to two or three 
drachms of mass, as above prepared, two or three times a week, for 
a week or two. The following are the details advised : — - 

The horse should be fed with bran mashes for two or three 
days, and have moderate but regular exercise, or be worked with 
moderation. He should be allowed only _a moderate quantity of 
hay, especially if he has a voracious appetite; and if inclined to 
eat his litter, he should be prevented by a muzzle, or by being tied 
up to the rack in the day-time, or what is still better, by having 
his litter removed during the day, and by applying the muzzle at 
night after he has eaten his allowance of hay. If in low condi- 
tion, some oats may be mixed with the bran mashes; but eight to 
ten pounds of good hay are a sufficient allowance for a day and 
night. On the morning when the physic is given, neither hay nor 
mashes should be allowed, until two or three hours after it has 
been taken. Some practitioners, however, du'ect a small, thin 
mash of bran only, to be given about an hour after, for the pur- 



PHYSICKING. 1041 

pose of dissolving or mixing with the physic. This, however, is 
unnecessary, though supposed to render the effect milder and more 
expeditious. But this is not the case; physic should be given fast- 
ing. During the day the horse may have walking exercise for 
about half an hour, and once only, and be fed with bran mashes, 
and have the chill taken off his water. Grooms generally con- 
sider exercise unnecessary or improper on the day the physic is 
given; and on the following day, when the medicine generally 
operates, they are apt to give too much exercise. But as soon as 
the purging has taken place in a sufficient degree, which is gener- 
ally the case about the afternoon of the day after it is taken, ex- 
ercise is unnecessary and improper. And should the purging con- 
tinue, or be found to be going on the following morning (that is, 
on the morning of the third day, including that on which the 
medicine was given), it should be restrained by gruel made of ar- 
row-root or fine wheat flour, with which the horse should be 
drenched if he refuses to drink it. Should the purging continue 
after this, about half an ounce of tincture of opium may be given 
with a little gruel. 

Horses sometimes appear sick, and refuse their food, after tak- 
ing physic, either during the afternoon or evening of the same 
day, or the following morning. This is generally caused by a neg- 
lect of the preparation above directed, by the stomach being 
loaded at the time the physic is given, or by the horse feeding im- 
properly too soon afterwards; and not unfrequently by the physic 
being too strong. When this sickness is observed, the horse should 
have walking exercise; and if it be on the same day the physic is 
taken, and the uneasiness be considerable, let a clyster be admin- 
istered; nothing more is necessary. Should it continue, however, 
the following morning let him be again exercised, and have some 
water with the chill off ; and if the purging does not come on, and 
he appears to make fruitless efforts to dung, let the clyster be re- 
peated, which, with a repetition of the exercise, will generally 
produce the desired effect, A horse should be clothed, and not 
exposed to rain or cold wind during the operation of physic; and 
when its operation has ceased, he should be gradually brought 
back to his usual diet and work. 

Cathartics improve digestion and chylification by cleansing 
the intestines and unloading the liver, and if the animal is after- 

66 



1042 DISEASES AND THEIK TEEATMENT. 

wards properly fed, will improve his strength and condition in a 
remarkable degree. Diuretics carry off the excrementitious mat- 
ter of the blood by the kidneys, and thereby produce a similar ef- 
fect, but not in so essential or permanent a manner; for if the sys- 
tem of feeding, which renders the blood impure, be continued, it 
will soon return to its original state. Cathartics are always use- 
ful when the appetite and digestion are bad, and this is known by 
a voracious or depraved appetite, both for food and for water; 
rumbling of the bowels, and a frequent discharge of wind from 
the anus. This is the case in a remarkable degree with broken- 
winded horses, and generally in such as have chronic cough, or 
are crib-biters. Cathartics should not be given too strong or too 
frequently, as they may thereby weaken instead of strengthen the 
digestive organs, and pi-oduce the effect they were intended to re- 
move. Cathartics should always be made with soap, in the fol- 
lowing manner, and then, if given upon an empty stomach, they 
will be carried off, and will not be dissolved until they get into the 
large bowels, where their effect is intended to be produced : that 
is, carrying off all the excrementitious matter that may be lodged 
in them. When given in this way, they never produce sickness 
or pain in the stomach, but always operate without pain or dan- 
ger. 

CATHABTIC BALL. 

4 drachms to 1 oz. Barbadoes aloes, powdered, 

3 to 4 drachms hard soap, 

1 drachm ginger, 

1 drachm water, 

10 drops oil of cloves. 
Beat the soap, oil of cloves, and water together in a mortar, so as to 
form a paste, and if necessary use more water. This being done, add the 
powdered aloes and ginger, and beat the whole into a ball. 

Bleeding, or Phlebotomy. 

The operation of blood-letting is now almost discarded in mod- 
ern practice. It is simple, and can be performed by almost any 
one with a steady hand. For its performance a fleam and blood- 
stick are required; the star of the fleam should be large at the 
shoulder, to make a sufficient opening to allow a free flow of blood, 
and the blade should be broad, to prevent its sinking in when the 
vein is deep. The jugular vein of the neck is usually selected to 



BLEEDING. 



1043 



bleed from. The head should be moderately raised and slightly 
turned off, the eye next the operator being covered by the hand of 




Fig. 888. — Raising the vein. 

the assistant holding the head. The left side is easiest operated 
on; the vein is raised by the pressure of the third and little fin- 




FiG. 889. — Method of placing the fleam. 

gers of the left hand, which holds the fleam. It is most superfi- 
cial about two inches from the angle of the jaw, consequently this 
point is usually selected for the operation. The vein being raised, 




1044 DISEASES AND THEIE TEEATMENT. 

and the hair smoothed down by the moistened finger, the star of 
the fleam is placed in a line with the course of the vein, with one 
smart tap of the blood-stick the vein and coats of 
the vein are punctured, and the blood will flow. 
When sufficient has been abstracted, the edges of the 
wound should be carefully taken together, and hairs 
and clot carefully wiped away ; a small pin is passed 
through them, and a little tow wound round it, and 
the point of the pin cut off. The head should be 
riG.890.— The ^^g^j ^p f^j. ^ fg^ hours to prevent his rubbing the 

orifice closed. . «. 
pm oft. 

Setons. 

Setons are similar in their action to rowels, and are used for 
much the same purposes. They are usually made of broad white 
tape. In inserting a seton, the skin is cut with the rowelling 
scissors as above. A seton needle, which should be large and well 
polished, is passed in and pushed under the skin as far as is neces- 
sary; another cut is then made in the skin, through which it is 
passed out; the needle in its course should separate the skin on 
each side from its cellular attachments. The lower opening 
should always be so placed that the matter will have a dependent 
outlet. The ends of the seton should be tied to circular pieces of 
leather, so as to prevent its being pulled through. It is necessary 
to wash it frequently with warm water, and pull it up and down 
often, to keep it open, dressing it occasionally with digestive oint- 
ment to keep up the discharge. 

The Rowel. 

Rowels are used as counter-irritants in treating deep-seated 
inflammations ; and whenever any morbid disease is to be stopped, 
as in grease and in thrushes, they have long been favorite reme- 
dies among horsemen. 

In applying a rowel, the skin is to be taken up between the 
finger and thumb, and a cut is made in the skin with the rowel- 
ling scissors, and with the hook on the handle of the scissors it is 
separated from its cellular connections for about two inches, and 
a dossil of tow, or a circular piece of leather, with a hole in it, pre- 
viously dipped in digestive ointment, is inserted, which must be 



TEACHEOTOMY. 



1045 



cleaned and moved every day. A discharge is soon set up, which 
has a tendency to remove any deep-seated, morbid action. 

Tracheotomy. 

It sometimes happens that from the tumefaction of strangles, 
the impaction of foreign bodies, and other sudden causes of ob- 
struction, the life of the patient is threatened from suffocation. It 
is found necessary to open the windpipe to avert the untoward re- 
sult, until the cause of the obstruction be removed. 

It consists in making an incision through the skin and muscles 
in the mesian line down on the trachea, or windpipe, cutting 
through two rings of this tube, and inserting a bent tube, which is 
usually made of block-tin, with a broad flange, to wliich tapes or 
straps are attached to tie it round the neck. It is usually em- 
ployed to give temporary relief ; but I have known horses to work 
with a tube in the windpipe for years. It must be frequently 
taken out and cleaned. When the cause of the obstruction is re- 
moved, the tube is withdrawn, and the edges of the skin being 
scarified, they are carefully brought together, and treated as a 
simple wound. 

Docking, Nicking, etc. 

This was a very common operation thirty years ago, but has 
now gone into en- 
tire disuse. Like 
high checking, it 
is not only need- 
less, but cruel. 
There are, how- 
ever, some cases 
in which it may 
be resorted to with 
advantage, and on 
this account I in- 
clude illustrations 
showing the method of doing it. The principal one is when the 
horse switches and becomes dangerous when the rein is caught 
under the tail. The action being involuntary, it cannot practic- 
ally be broken up by treatment In such a case raising the tail 
will be found effectual. 




Fig. 891. — Showing the methods of severing the 
depressing ligaments, from the French. 



1046 



DISEASES AND THEIR TEEATMBNT. 



In performing it, the joint at which it is to be amputated be- 
ing determined upon, the hair above it is shed back and tied "with 
a cord, the part is chpped close, and the tail being held out by an 
assistant, with one cut of the docking shears it is severed. The 
bleeding is stopped by lightly searing with a hot iron with a hole in 
the center so as not to burn the bone. Some practitioners ampu- 
tate it so as to leave flaps to cover the bone; by this method the 
stump is entirely covered by hair, and though more troublesome, 
is preferable. Too much searing is to be avoided, as exfoliation 




¥iG. 892. — Ordinary method of putting the horse ia pulleys to raise the tail, 
of the bone sometimes follows the injudicious use of the firing 



Nicking and pricking are one and the same operation, the lat- 
ter being an improved method of performing it. The object is to 
cause the tail to be carried in an elevated position, which is much 
admired in road horses. It is also performed to set the tail straight 
when carried awry, which is a serious eyesore to a good-looking 
horse. Pricking is nothing more or less than tenotomy of the de- 
pressor muscles of the tail. 

It is best to secure him with a twitch and side line; the hair 
at the end of the tail is firmly tied, and a loop formed, to which 
the weight is to be attached. The only instrument used is a long- 



EMBEOOATIONS. 



1047 



bladed scalpel, or the common pricking knife. The tail ' is raised 
with the left hand, while with the right the center of the bone is 
felt for, and the knife is passed in (with its flat surface next the 
skin) to the opposite side, when the cutting edge is turned toward 
the bone, and the muscles carefully divided. Wheli simply to 
straighten a wry tail, if the faulty tendons are discovered and 
divided, one incision may be sufficient; but in " setting up " a tail. 




Fig. 893. — The French method of keeping the tail elevated. 

two, and sometimes three, are required. The muscles having been 
thoroughly divided, the tail is supported by means of the double 
pulley over the back part of the stall; the cord attached to the 
end of the tail is passed through the wheels of the pulley, and suf- 
ficient weight attached to keep the tail elevated, to prevent read- 
hesion of the divided muscles. He should be taken out of the pul- 
leys twice a day and gently exercised; but the pulleys must be 
continued until the parts have thoroughly healed, and he carries 
the tail in the manner desired. 

Embrocations 

Are external applications in a liquid form, that are rubbed on a 
diseased part, as in strains and indolent swellings, and as an aux- 
iliary in the treatment of internal inflammation. They are of a 
stimulating nature, and are greatly assisted by friction. Of this 
kind are opodeldoc, soap liniment, etc. 

EMBROCATONS FOR HARD, INDOLENT TUMORS. 

No. 1. — 4 ounces olive-oil, 

4 drachma camphor. Mix. 



1048 DISEASES AIS^D THEIE TEEATMENT. 

No, 2. — 2 ounces mercurial ointment, 

2 drachms each of olive-oil and camphor. 

Embrocations of a more stimulating kind are sometimes em- 
ployed in swellings of the joints, old strains, or other local affec- 
tions, such as soap liniment with liquid ammonia, olive-oil, oil of 
turpentine, and liquid ammonia; but blisters in such cases are 
generally more effectual. 

Embrocations are often improperly employed, as in recent 
strains, or inflamed tumors, and other cases where emollient or 
cooling applications are required. Both strains and bruises are 
at first attended with a degree of inflammation proportionate to 
the violence of the injury, and the susceptibility of the injured 
part; therefore they require, at first, such treatment as is calcu- 
lated to subdue inflammation, as explained under head of Sprains, 
etc. 

ANODTTnS LINIMENT. 
4 troy ounces castile soap, 
2 troy ounces spirits camphor, 
■| ounce oil rosemary, 
2 pints alcohol, 
4 ounces water. 
Good for sprains, bruises, rheumatic pains, etc. 

LINIMENT OF AMMONIA, OK, VOLATILE LINIMENT. 

1 ounce strong solution of ammonia, 

2 ounces olive-oil. Mix. 

To this, camphor or oil of turpentine is sometimes added ; and the bo- 
lution of ammonia is, for some purposes, joined to the soap liniment. 

MITSTAEI) EMBKOCATION. 

4 ounces flour of mustard, 

Ij ounces liquid ammonia, 

1 ounce oil of turpentine. 
Water, a sufficient quantity to bring it to the consistency of cream. 
Flour of mustard mixed into a thin paste, with water only, is a powerful 
stimulant, and may be employed with good effect in cases of internal inflam- 
mation, either of the bowels or lungs. 

SOAP LINIMENT. 

1 ounce hard soap, 
1 ounce camphor, 
1 ounce oil of rosemary, 
1 pint rectified spirits. 
Out up the soap, and let it stand with the spirits until dissolved, then 
add the rest. Good for sprains, bruises, etc. 



CAUSTICS. 1049 



Caustics 



Are substances which burn away the tissues of the body by de- 
composition of their elements, and are valuable to destroy fungous 
growth and set up healthy action. They are, consequently, often 
required to destroy proud flesh, kill the virus in poisoned wounds, 
stimulate old ulcers, excite healthy action in fistula, and remove 
warts, tumors, etc. 

Corrosive sublimate, in powder, acts energetically; nitrate of 
silver is excellent to lower granulation ; sulphate of copper is not 
so strong as the above, but good; chloride of zinc is a powerful 
caustic, and may be used in sinuses, in solution, 7 drachms in a 
pint of water; verdigris, either in powder or mixed with lard, is 
good as an ointment, in proportion of one to three parts. Carry- 
ing this treatment to extreme implies using a hot iron, the actual 
cautery. 

Vegetable Caustic. — Make a strong lye of hickory or oak 
ashes, put into an iron kettle, and evaporate to the consistency of 
thin molasses; then remove into a sand bath, and continue the 
evaporation to the consistency of honey. Keep it in a ground 
stopped glass jar. 

This caustic is very valuable in fistulas, cancers, scrofulas, and 
indolent ulcers, particularly where there are sinuses, necrosis (or de- 
cay of bone), and in all cases where there is proud flesh ; and also 
to excite a healthy action of the parts. It removes fungous flesh 
without exciting inflammation, fl.nd acts but little except on spongy 
or soft flesh. 



CHAPTER XXXVII. 



FORMULA FOR RECIPES AND PRESCRIPTIONS. 

In this chapter is given a list of prescriptions, proved by ex- 
perience to be most valuable. Many of them have been long used 
by the Veterinary Profession, and have also been recommended 
and used by the best authorities in Europe and this country. 
There are also included a lar'ge number of chance recipes, obtained 
by me in various ways, many of them during the past twenty 
years, taken from my old book, " New System," which have been 
proved valuable, and which I regard worthy of a place here. 
Among them are many recipes that have been kept great secrets, 
and sold at large prices. 

Alteratives. 



No. 1. — Tartar emetic, .... 2 ounces. 

Nitre (saltpetre), . . . . 4 " Mix. 

Divide into twelve powders, one to be given twice a day in the food. 
Useful in catarrh, influenza, and skin diseases. 

No. 2. — Sulphur, . . " . . . 3 ounces. 

Nitre, 2 " 

Antimony, Ij " Mix. 

To be divided into six powders, one daily in the food. Useful in skin 
diseases. 

BAILS. 

No. 1. — Barbadoes aloes, ... 10 drachms. 

Castile soap, . . . . 12 " 

Powdered carraway seed, . 12 " 

Powdered ginger, . . . 4 " 

Molasses or palm-oil sufficient to form a mass. Divide into six balls, 
one to be given every morning till the bowels are freely opened. Useful in 
hide-bound, costive bowels, and skin diseases. 
[1050] 



DIUEETIC ALTEEATIVES. 1051 

No. 2. — ^Barbadoes aloes, ... 10 drachms. 

Calomel, 2 '' 

Powdered fenugreek, . , 12 " 

Ginger, ..... 4 " 
Oil of cloves, . . . .40 drops. 

Soft soap sufficient to form a mass; Divide into four parts, one every 
second day. While taking these, he must have mashes, chilled water, etc. , 
and be carefully preserved from cold and damp. Useful in hide-bound, grease, 
vmthrifty condition, etc. 

No. 3. — Tartar emetic, . . . .6 drachms. 

Calomel, ..... 3 " 

Sublimated sulphur, . . .3 ounces. 

Common mass sufficient to form six balls of an ounce each ; one daily. 
Useful in mange, worms, and skin diseases. 

DiUKETic Altekatives. 

POWDERS. 

No. 1. — Kesin, finely powdered, . r 2 ounces. 

Nitre, li " 

Linseed meal, . . . . 3 " Mix. 

Divide into six balls ; one daily. Regulate the kidneys and improve the 
coat. 

BAIiS. 

No. 1. — Powdered resin, . ... 4 ounces. 
Castile soap, . . . . 3 " 

Venice turpentine, . . . . 2 " 
Powdered carrav/ays sufficient to form the mass. Divide into balls of a 
convenient size ; one daily, till diuresis is produced. Useful in swelled legs, 
dropsical eflfusion, weed, etc. 

Antacids. 

No. 1. — Prepared chalk, .... 4 ounces. 

Powdered ginger, . . . . 1 " 

Barbadoes aloes, . . . . 1 " 

Common mass sufficient to make six balls of convenient size ; one daily. 
Useful in acidity of the stomach and indigestion. 

No. 2. — Carbonate (bicarbonate) soda, . 3 ounces. 

Gentian and ginger, of each, . . 1 " 

Molasses sufficient to make a mass. Divide into four parts ; one night 
and morning. 

Antispasmodics. 

No. 1. — Sulphuric ether, , . . .1 ounce. 
Infusion of opium, . . . 2 " 

Peppermint water, . . . . 1 " Mix. 

To be given in a quart of cold water. Useful in flatulence, spasm, etc. 



1052 BECIPES AKD PKESCKIPTIONS. 

No. 2. — Ether and chloroform, of each, . ^ ounce. 

Tincture of opium, . . . 2 " 

Tincture of cardamoms, . . 1 " 

To be given in a quart of water. Useful in colic. 

No. 3. — Spirits of ammonia (aromatic), . 2 ounces. 
Dilute hydrocyianic acid, . . 20 drops. 

Tincture of ginger, . . , 2 ol^nces. 

To be given in a quart of beer, well shaken. Useful in spasmodic 
colic, etc. 

ANODYNE DRAUGHT, OR DRENCH. 

No. 4. — Tincture of opium, . . . | to 1 ounce. 

Spirits of nitrous ether, . . . 1 to 2 " 

Essense of peppermint,* . . 1 to 2 drachms. 

Water, . . . ... 1 pint. 

ANODYNE CARMINATIVE TINCTURE. 

No. 5. — ^Best Turkey opium, . , . 1 ounce. 

Cloves, bruised, . . . . 2 " 

Jamaica ginger, bruised, . . 3 " 

Old Cognac brandy^ , . .1 quart. — (White.) 

Either of these recipes will be found a good remedy for flatu- 
lent or spasmodic colic. In the anodyne draught warm beer may 
be substituted for water. It should be recollected that when the 
colic is attended with costiveness, clysters and oily and saline lax- 
atives are necessary, either in addition to the anodyne, or after 
the anod3nie is exhibited. For other prescriptions, see Colic, page 
886. 

Deench for Stomach Staggers. 

No. 1. — Barbadoes aloes, .... 5 drs. to 1 oz. 
Calomel, ..... 2 drachms. 

Oil of peppermint, . . . .20 drops. 
Warm water, . . . . .1 pint. 

Tincture of cardamoms, . , 2 ounces. 

Mix, and give at one dose. 

Astringents. 

No. 1. — Powdered opiiim, . . . .1 draclim. 

Powdered catechu, . . . 2 " 

Powdered chalk, . . . . 1 ounce. 

To be given in arrow-root, starch, or tliick flour gruel. Useful in diar- 
rhoea or superpurgation. 

* Essence of peppermint consists of the essential oil of peppermint dissolved in 
spirit of wine : one part of the former to three of the latter. 



BLISTEES. 1053 

No. 2. — Powdered catechii and alum, of each, 2 drachms. 
Powdered opium, . . . 1 " 

Powdered ginger, . . . . 2 " 
Oil of cloves, . . . . 10 drops. 

Molasses to form a ball. Useful in superpurgation, diarrhoea, etc. 

No. 3. — Opium and acacia gum, of each, . 1 drachm. 
Prepared chalk, ... 4 ounces. 

Carefully dissolved in warm water, and given in plenty of flour or starch 
gruel, which, alternated with linseed tea, is to be often repeated. 

DRYING POWDERS. 

No. 1. — ^Prepared chalk, . . . .4 oiinces. 

Sulphate of zinc, . . . 1 '' 

Charcoal, . . . . . 1 " 

Armenian bole, . . . 2 " Mix. 

To be finely powdered, and dusted over raw surfaces. Useful for heal- 
ing wounds. 

No. 2. — Powdered alum, . . , '. 4 ounces. 

Armenian bole, . . . , 1 " Mix, 

To be powdered, and used as above. 

No. 3. — Sulphate of zinc, .... 2 ounces. 

Oxide of zinc, . . . . . 1 " Mix. 

To be used as above. 

ASTRINGENT LOTION. 

No. 1. — Sulphate of zinc, ... 6 drachms. 

Sugar of lead, . . . . 3 ounce. Mix. 

To be dissolved in a quart of water. Wet the wound twice a day with 
the lotion, well shaken. Useful for wounds, bruises, etc. 

ASTRINGENT OINTMENT. 

No. 1. — Resin ointment, .... 4 ounces. 

Oil of turpentine, . . ■ . 1 " 

Powdered sulphate of copper, . . i " 

Mix, and make an ointment. Useful for tardy sores and fungus 
growths. 

Blisters. 

OINTMENTS. . 

No. 1. — Lard, ...... 12 ounces. 

Canadian turpentine, . . . 2 " 

Powdered cantharides. ... 3 " 

Melt the lard and turpentine, stir in tiie flies, keep stirring tUl cool. 



1054 



EEOIPBS AKB PEESCEIPTIONS. 



No. 2. — Lard, . . ... .3 pounds. 

Flies, 1 " 

Euphorbium, ... .4 drachms. 

Palm oil, ..... 1 pound. 

Melt the lard and oil over a slow fire, and when cooling, stir in the other 
ingredients. 

1 pound. 
4 ounces. 
. 3 " 

6 drachms. 
Useful for splints, spavins, ring-bones, 



No. 3. — Lard, 

Turpentine, . 
Powdered flies, 
Biniodide of mercury, 
To be thoroughly incorporated 
and enlargement of glands. 



No. 4. — Lard, 

Bee's wax, . 
Biniodide of mercury. 



1 pound. 
4 ounces. 

Melt the lard and wax, and the biniodide, and stir till cold. Useful 
for enlargement of bone or glandular tissues. 



LIQUID BLISTERS. 



15 ounces. 

1 " 



No. 1. — Rectified spirits of wine. 
Powdered cantharides. 
Powdered camphor, . . . i " 

Macerate for ten days. To be used as a sweating blister. 

No. 2.— Olive-oil, "] 

Oil of turpentine, > equal parts. 
Aqua ammonia, ) 
To be well shaken. Useful for sore throat, chronic swelling, and cal- 
lous enlargements. 

Colic Mixtures.* 



No. 1. — Linseed oil, .... 


1 quart. 




Tincture of opium. 


2 ounces. 




Oil of turpentine. 


. 2 " 


Mix. 


To be given as a drench. 






No. 2. — Linseed oil, . . . , 


1 pint. 




Tincture of opium, . . . 


2 ounces. 




Sweet spirits of nitre. 


. 2 " 


Mix. 


As a drench. — (Dick.) 






No. 3. — Aromatic spirits of ammonia, . 


1 ounce. 




Whisky, 


2 " 




Oil of peppermint, . 


. 20 drops. 




Water, .... 


1 quart. 


Mix. 



* See also Antispasmodics, page 1051. 



COLLYEIA (EYE-WATEES). 1055 

No. 4. — ^Alkaline solution of aloes, . 4 to 6 ounces. 

Oil of peppermint, ... 30 drops. 
Tincture of opium, .... 2 ounces. 
Water, ..... 1 quart. Mix. 

CoLLYRiA (Eye- Waters). 

No. 1. — Nitrate of sUver, . . . . 2 to 10 grains. 
Rain, or distilled water, . . 1 ounce. 

Infusion of opium, .... 5 drops. Mix. 

To be applied to the eye with a feather or camel's-hair pencil. Useful 
in opacity of the cornea, specific ophthalmia, etc. 

• No. 2. — Sulphate zinc. . . . . ^ drachm. 
Acetate of lead, ... .1 drachm. 

Distilled water, . ... 16 ounces. Mix. 



To be used as above. 
Linseed meal. 



Common Mass. 



,^ , >• equal parts. 

Molasses, j ^ ^ 

Very useful in making up balls. 

Compound Camphor Liniment. 

Camphor, ..... 2 ounces. 

Spirits of lavender, . . . . 1 pint. 

Liquor ammonia, .... 6 ounces. Mix. 
Useful in sprains, or as a mild blister. 

Compound Iodine Liniment. 

Iodine, ..... 1 part. 

Soap liniment, .... 8 parts. 

Mix, and shake well. Useful in sprains, thickened tendons, enlarged 
glands, etc. 

Condition Balls. 

No. 1. — Powdered ginger, .... 1 drachm. 
Powdered gentian, . . 3 " 

Sulphate of iron, . . . . 2 " 
Molasses sufficient to form a mass. To be made into one ball. Im- 
proves the appetite, and stimulates digestion. 

No. 2. — Powdered ginger, . . . .1 drachm. 

Allspice, 2 " 

Caraway seed, . . . . . 3 " 

Molasses to form a ball. As above. 



1056 KBCIPES AND PEBSCEIPTIONS. 

Cordial Drench. 

No. 1. — Good old beer (warm), . . 1 quart. 

Powdered ginger, . . • • i ounce. 

Shake well. To be given in exhaustion, and recovery from debilitating 
diseases. 

No. 2. — Best brandy, . . . . 2 to 4 ounces. 

Molasses, . . . . . 3 ounces. 

Warm water, . . . . 12 " 

As above. 

Veterinary Aromatic Powder. 

Powdered caraway seeds, . . 6 ounces. 

Powdered allspice, . . . . 4 " 

Jamaica gingered, powdered, . 2 " 

Liquorice powder, . . . . 2 " Mix. 

This is a good cordial powder, and may be given in a dose of two or 
three drachms in warm ale, in such cases as require the use of cordials. If 
the form of a ball is preferred, it may be obtained by beating up a dose of 
the powders with a little molasses. 

Cough Balls. 

[ See also Chronic Cough.] 

No. 1. — Calomel, "^ 

^" ' Vof each, 1 drachm. 
Camphor, f 

Digitalis, J 

Made into a ball, with molasses. One daily, till six are given, when a 

gentle laxative should be administered. — (Dick.) 

No. 2. — Digitalis, .... 
Camphor, . . 
Tartar emetic. 
Linseed meal. 
Nitrate of potass, . 
To be made into a mass, with Barbadoes tar, 
Used as above. — (Spooner.) 

No. 3. — Gum ammon. 

Powdered squills, 
Camphor, .... 
Castile soap, .... 
Oil of anise, 
Sirup and flour sufficient to form a ball. 



5 drachm. 




1 " 




. 1 " 




1 '■ 




. 3 " 




ar. Useful in 


cnronic couj 


2 to 3 drachms. 


. 1 drachm. 




1 " 




. 2 " 




20 minims. 




(White.) 





DECOCTION OF ALOES. 1057 

No. 4. — Barbadoea aloes, .... 3 ounces. 

Common mass, .... 13 " 
Powdered digitalis, . . . 1 " 
Make into sixteen. One daily. — (Gamgee.) 

Decoction of Aloes. 

Barbadoes aloes, . . . . 2J ounces. 
Bicarbonate potass, . . . 2 " 
Acacia gum, . . . . . 2 " 
Boiling water, .... 1 pint. Mix. 

If required to keep, two ounces of alcohol may be added. — (Percival.) 

Drench for a Cough. 

Bruise 3 ounces of fresh, squills in a mortar, or 4 to 5 ounces of garlic, 
and macerate them in 12 ounces of vinegar in a slow oven or on a hot plate 
for one hour ; strain oflf the liquid part, and add to it 1 pound of treacle, or 
honey. The dose in bad coughs is 3 to 4 ounces. If there exists much irri- 
tation, a tablespoonf ul of tincture of opium may be added to every 6 ounces. 

Digestives 

Are medicines which promote suppuration in ulcers, and cause 
them to discharge a white, healthy matter. This term is com- 
monly applied to ointments and other preparations which improve 
the state or condition of ulcers or sores, and cause them to dis- 
charge good matter. Medicines that promote the digestion of 
food are termed tonics, stomachics, and cordials. 

DIGESTIVE OINTMBNIS. 

No. 1. — Powdered resin, .... 1 pound. 
Lard, 1 " 

Oil of turpentine, . . . . 2 " Mix. 

Dissolve the resin and lard, and stir in the turpentine. Useful for stim- 
ulating unhealthy wounds, keeping up the action of blisters, and smearing 
setons. 

No. 2.— Hog's lard. 



■Hog's lard, . . ] 

Common turpentine, . | °^ ^^^^ ^ °"°«««- 



Melt over a slow fire, and add 1 ounce powdered acetate of copper. Stir 
till cold, and use as above. 

No. 3. — Vaseline and strained turpentine, of 

each, 4 ounces. 

"Verdigris, 1 " Mix. 

67 



1058 



EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. 



No. 4. — Hog's-lard or vaseline, and Venice 
turpentine, of each, 
Sulphate of copper (blue vitriol, pow- 
dered finely), . 

No. 5. — Ointment of yellow resin, . 

Oil of turpentine, .... 
Nitric oxide of mercury (red precipi- 
tate), finely powdered, 



4 ounces. 



4 ounces. 
1 '' 



Mix. 



Mix. 



Friar's Balsam. 

Friar's Balsam, or compound tincture benzoin, is made in the 
following manner: — 

Benzoin, ..... 3 ounces. 

Storax Balsam, strained, . . . 2 " 

Balsam of tolu, . . . . 1 " 

Extract of spiked aloes, . . • 2 " 

Rectified spirit, .... 2 pints. 
Macerate for fourteen days (seven days, dub.), and filter or strain 
through blotting paper. The properties of this tincture are stimulating and 
expectorant, and it is therefore prescribed by some in combination with 
other remedies, in cases of old chronic cough or broken wind. As it is de- 
composed by water, it should first be amalgamated with mucilage or yolk of 
egg, in order to suspend it in aqueous liquids, when given internally. How- 
ever, its principle use is that of a stimulant external application to indolent 
sores or wounds. 

Diuretic or Urine Balls. 



No. 1. — Soap, . . "^ 

Resin, . . . > of each, ^ ounce. 
. Nitre, . . J 

One every second day till two or three are given. Useful in swelled legs, 
grease, etc. 



STo. 2.— Nitre, 


3 drachms. 


Powdered resin, . . 


4 " 


Oil of juniper, .... 


. J fluid drachm. 


Powdered ginger, 


1 scruple. 


Soft soap sufficient to form a ball. 




^0. 3. — Powdered resin. 


4 drachms. 


Powdered nitre, 


3 " 


Powdered ginger. 


. 1 


Palm-oil sufficient to form a ball. 





FEVER MIXTURES. 1059 

Liniment for Bad Theush and Canker. 

No. 1. — Tar, 4 ounces ; melt, and add 

Muriatic acid, . . . . ,6 drachms. 

Verdigris, 4 " Mix. 

Continue stirring until it is cold, 

No. 2. — Tar melted, . . . , .1 pound. 
Strong sulphuric acid, by weight, 2 ounces. 

Stir them well together for some time, and immediately before the mixt- 
ure is used. 

Diuretic Mass. 

Common resin, .... 3 pounds. 

Soft soap, ..... 2 " 

Melt over a slow fire, and when cool add 

Nitre (powdered finely), . . 2 " 

Venice turpentine, ... 10 ounces. 
To be made into balls as required. Dose, 1 ounce. 

Fever Mixtures, 

No. 1. — Nitre, 1 pound. 

Tartar emetic, . . . . i " 

Camphor, 4 ounces. 

Common mass as much as is sufficient to form a mass. Dose, 1 ounce, 
made into a ball. One every three hours, while fever lasts. 

No. 2. — Tincture of aconite, . . . 10 to 15 drops. 
To be given every two hours in a little water till fever subsides. 

No. 3. — Calomel and opium, of each, . . 1 drachm. 
Common mass, . . . . 6 " 

Made into a ball as above. Useful in inflammation of the lungs, etc. 

Hoof Ointment. 

Archangel tar, .... 1 pound. 

Tallow, 1 " 

Bee's wax, ..... 4 ounces. 
Melt together, and stir till cool. Useful dressing for weak feet, keep- 
ing the hoof soft, and stimulating the growth of horn, 

Goulard's Extract. 

Sugar of lead, . . . . .6 ounces and 6 drachms. 

Litharge (powdered), . , . 4 " 
Water, ...... IJ pint. 

Boil for half an hour, and when cool, if required, add water to make a 

pint and a half ; filter, and keep in well-stoppered bottles. Useful in bruises, 

inflammation of the eyes, skin eruptions, etc. 



1060 EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. 

Iodine Ointment. 

Iodine, . , . . . .1 drachm. 

Iodide of potassium, . . . ^ drachm. 

Lard, . ..... 1 ounce. Mix. 

Useful in glandular and bony enlargements, mallenders, sallenders, 
ring-worm, etc. 

Lice Mixture. 

Olive-oil, 1 quart. 

Oil of tar, . . . , .3 ounces. Mix. 

To be well shaken. Wash well with soap and water, rub dry, and rub 
well in. At the same time feed well. 

Mange Ointment. 

Linseed, or train oil. ... 8 ounces. 

Oil of tar, 2 " 

Sulphur, . . . . . . 4 " Mix. 

Shake well, and wash with soap and water ; then rub the mixture well 
in, washing every second day. 

Purgatives. 

PURGATIVE DKBNCH. 

No. 1. — Linseed or castor oil, ... 1 quart. 

PUK,GA.TIVE DKENCH FOR OBSTINATE CONSTIPATION. 

No. 2. — Linseed oil, .... 1 quart. 

Croton oil, 20 drops. Mix. 

Tonic Powders. 

No. 1. — Sulphate of iron, . . . .3 ounces. 

Arsenious acid, .... 1 drachm. Mix. 

Powder the iron finely, and divide into twelve powders ; then add the 
arsenic (five grains) to each. One night and morning in the feed. Useful 
in loss of appetite and recovery from debilitating diseases. 

No. 2. — Sulphate of copper, ... 2 ounces. 
Ginger, . . . . , . 1 " 
Powder and divide into twelve ; one night and morning. Useful in 
farcy, nasal gleet, and chronic discharges. 

Tonic Mass. 

No. 1. — Ginger (powdered) gentian. 



-Ginger (powdered) gentian, ) 

n 1 1 . -, r equal parts. 

Carraway seed and anise seed, ) 



Molasses sufficient to form a mass. Dose, one ounce in a ball night and 
morning. 



WORM POWDF.Ea 106X 

No. 2. — Ginger, gentian, and sulphate of iron, 

of each, .... 2 pounds. 

Lard, 1 '' 

Molasses, & " Mix. 

The sulphate of iron to be finely powdered, and thoroughly incorporated 
with the other ingredients ; the lard and molasses to be dissolved, and the 
mixed powder to be stirred in. Dose, one oimce night and morning. 

Worm Powders. 

Tartar emetic, .... 2 drachms. 

Linseed meal, . . . . .1 ounce. 

To be given night and morning in a little bran, or on an empty stomach. 

Worm Balls. 

No. 1. — Gentian quassia, camphor, sulphate 

of iron, of each, ... 2 drachms. 

Made into a ball with common mass. — (Jhin.) 

No. 2. — Assafoetida, . . . . .2 drachms. 

Calomel and savin, < >f each, . . 1 j " 

Oil of male fern, ... 30 drops. 

Common mass sufficient to form a ball given at night, and a purge in 
the morning. — (Oamgee.) 

Worm Drench. 

Linseed oil, . . . . .1 quart. 

Oil of turpentine, .... 2 ounces. 
To be prepared by bran mashes for two days ; allowed to fast for at 
least eight hours,' when the drench is to be carefully given ; and, if thought 
necessary, repeated next morning, and followed by a purgative. 




1062 EBCIPES AND PHESCillPTlONS. 

RECIPES FROM THE AUTHOR'S OLD BOOK (THE NEW 
SYSTEM), AND OTHER SOURCES, 

Which have not been included in previous chapters. Among these 
are many recipes valued highly by persons having the old book. 
For the benefit of such I give them a place here. 

Charges. 

Adhesive plasters -vvhieh are softened or liquefied in a ladle by 
a gentle heat, and then applied to the legs, from the knee and 
hock joints to the foot, as a remedy for wind galls and old lame- 
nesses, arising from strains or hard work, or to the back in strains 
of that part. As soon as the plaster is applied, the part is cov- 
ered with short tow, and the horse sent to grass. 

A CHARGE. 

No. 1. — 2 ounces yellow resin, 4 ounces burgundy pitch, 2 ounces Barba- 
does tar, 3 ounces bee's wax, 4 ounces red lead. The first three are to be 
melted together, and then the latter is to be added. The mixture is to be 
constantly stirred until sufficiently cold to be applied ; and if it proves too 
thick "when cold, it may be softened with a little oil or lard. 

Grain Founder. 

Take three pints of vinegar, into which put six red pepper 
pods, and boil until reduced to one quart. When, cool, give as a 
drench. Blanket the horse warmly. This will put the horse in 
a profuse perspiration, and perform a perfect cure. The gentle- 
man of whom I got this cured a valuable horse that got into his 
granary and ate so much grain that he was in the morning per- 
fectly stiff'. One dose made a perfect cure. He said he would not 
be without it for one hundred dollars. 

Condition Powder. 

J S>. grains paradise (ground), -} lb. ground ginger, | lb. powdered gen- 
tian, 6 ounces cumin seed (ground), C ounces fenugreek (ground), 6 ounces 
carbonate soda, G lbs. common brown sugar, 1| lbs. salt. Put in one hun- 
dred pounds of meal. Dose : one pint to be given with the usual food. 

This is considered one of the best tonic condition powders ever 
used. It is sold in the Eastern cities at a large price, under the 
name of Condition Food, and is held as a secret of great value. 
I have known $50 to be refused for the recipe. 



FOE STEALN OK IJ^FJuAMMATJ OJ^ . 1063 



A Yery Fine Healing Pkepaeation for Cuts. 

Equal parts tincture myrrh and balsam copiaba. To be used 
once a day. This is the favorite remedy of one of the most suc- 
cessful horsemen in the country. It is one of the best of healing 
remedies. 

A Good Application to a Putrid Ulcer. 

To remove foetid smell of fistulous withers, poll evil, canker, 
and wounds, dilute chloride of lime, with twenty times its quan- 
tity of water, and dress with it whenever there is an offensive dis- 
charge. , Mix a poultice with this preparation, and put it on. It 
will remove all smell, and cleanse by its action. 

For Strain or Inflammation. 

Whenever there is much inflammation from strain or wounds, 
take — 

1 pound saltpetre, 1 gallon hot water. When cool, add 1 quart best 
whisky. Saturate a sponge or cloth with the preparation, and keep the part 
thoroughly wet with it. 

To Cure Cuts or Bruises of the Cheeks.* 

They are liable to occur in some peculiar cases when using 
third method of subjection. Use inside, — 

1 drachm tannin to J oz. borax, 3 to 4 parts water. Swab once a day in- 
side the wound. For outside dressing use 1 ounce tincture of myrrh, 2 
ounces tincture aloes, ^ pint water. 

If the horse is troublesome, liable to strike, tie with a strong 
halter, rather short, to the manger; then tie a rope or strong strap 
around the neck, bring back between the fore legs, around the 
near hind leg, and back through the loop around the neck ; pull 
short enough to raise the foot from the ground to make fast. The 
horse is now unable to rear, and will stand quietly to have the 
parts dressed. Repeat dressuag once a day, until cured. 

A great deal of trouble will be prevented when there is bruis- 
ing of the cheeks, as stated, by bathing with hot water, and dress- 
ing with calendula. The bathing must be continued until the in- 
flammation is reduced, then dress with the calendula ; but if neg- 
lected, suppuration is liable to follow, making holes in the cheeks, 
when the treatment must be as above. 

* This prescription was given the writer by Dr. Braily, chief veterinary surgeon 
of the U. S. Cavalry during the Rebellion. It will be found all that can be desired 
for healing all wounds inside cheeks or mouth. 



1064 EECIPES AND PEBSOKIPTIOJSTS. 



To Grow Hair on the Mane or Tail. 

Add as much sulphur to castor oil as will make it thick as 
cream, and rub into the roots of the hair two or three times a 
week. This was obtained by the writer nearly twenty years ago 
in Maine. From some cause^ one of my horses (Turco) rubbed 
the hair off his tail so as to spoil it. The skin was smooth and 
glossy, and apparently beyond hope of new hair growing in. Some 
one told me to apply the above, and in a short time a heavy 
growth of hair started, and grew to full length. 

In 1878, in defiance of all that could be done, Gifford (one of 
my pair of trained horses) lost all the hair from his tail. The 
above was well rubbed into the dock two or three times a week, 
and a heavy growth of hair was soon started, which, in time, made 
a fine tail. 

Astringent Ointments. 

No. 1. — 4 ounces Yenice turpentine, 1 ounce bee's wax, 4 ounces vase- 
line. Melt over a slow fire ; and when rather cool, but when it is liquid, 
add 1 ounce sugar of lead, or 2 ounces alum, finely powdered. Stir the mixt- 
ure until it is cold. 

No. 2. — 1 drachm red nitrated mercury, commonly named red precipi- 
tate, rubbed down to a very fine powder ; 2 ounces calmine cerate, com- 
monly named Turner's cerate. Mix. 

Rewiarh. — The astringent powders and ointments are designed 
chiefly as remedies for the grease, after the inflammation of the 
part has been in a great measure removed by proper poultices ; 
but the ointment is applicable onlj;- to those ulcerations or cracks 
which are sometimes an effect of that disease ; and often occurring 
from other causes. 

Goulard's Extract. 

This is made from litharge and vinegar, by simmering them 
together over a gentle fire, until the vinegar has dissolved as 
much as it is capable of doing. It is a very useful application in 
cases of external inflammation, and may be used either as a lotion 
or in the form of a poultice. Goulard lotion is made by mixing 
half an ounce of the extract in a pint of soft water. Some add 
to this a little camphorated spirit, or some distilled viaegar ; but 
when the lotion is intended for the eyes, there must be a much 
larger portion of water, not less than a quart, and the lotion 
should be filtered. 

Goulard poultice is made by mixing as much of the lotion with 
bran, linseed meal, or any proper materials for a poultice, as will 
give them a proper consistence. Goulard is never used undiluted, 
nor is it given internally. — White. 



COUGH POWDBES. 1065 



* Fissure, or Sand Crack, in Front of Hoof 

Is most common in the hind feet of draught horses. It is caused 
by disease of the coffin-bone ; the pyra-medal process, or front 
of the bone, being affected. Save all horn in toe possible, espe- 
cially the bottom clips, to be taken up on each side of toe; but 
must not be hammered down tightly when the shoe is on. They 
must simply be tight, without giving constraint. 

For treatment, take 1 ounce each of tar and resin, J ounce 
tallow ; melt together. Apply this, while warm, to the fissure of 





Fig, 894. — Fissure, or Fig. 895. — An old quar- 

toe crack. ter crack. 

the hoof and coronet, then place a layer of tow over the dressing, 
and bind the ball of the foot with a broad, coarse tape, rather 
tight. All that can usually be done is to palliate, a cure can 
rarely be accomplished. 

Mr. Gamgee has given a great deal of attention to this diffi- 
culty, dissecting a large number, and in all cases found the bone 
diseased. He advises the above treatment, which is all that can 
be done. 

To Cure Weakness and Weeping of the Eyes — the Lids 
Swollen and the Eyes Weak. — For Horses. 

An old man's remedy. Claimed that he never failed in curing 
with it. 

Take saltpetre, 1| oz. ; sulphate of zinc, 1 oz. ; sugar of lead, 
1 oz. Mix all with a pint of vinegar and a quart of soft water. 
Tkke a small sponge ; fill with it and squeeze in the hollow over 
the eye once a day until a cure is effected. 

Cough Powders. 

An excellent remedy: Licorice root (powdered), fenugreek, 
lobelia, blood-root, camphor gum, equal parts. Dose — tablespoon- 
ful two or three times a day in feed. In all cases of acute or 

* This was Intended to follow Quarter Crack, page 691, but was passed over 
when that matter was put in type. 



1066 



EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. 



chronic cough, if thickening of glands of neck, stimulate outside 
neck sharply. 

For Removing Callouses or Thickening, Curbs or 
Bunches of any Kind. 

Oil origanum, oil spike, oil amber, spirits turpentine and cam- 
phor, 1 ounce each. Rub on thoroughly two or three times a 
week. 

When in Ohio, the writer bought a fine work horse very 





Fig. 896. — Thickening of the 
tendons, caused by bang- 
ing or striking the 
part. (Belongs to 
article on p. 1001.) 



Fig. 897. — Front view of bones 
of the fore foot. (Belongs 
to article on Foot- 
Lameness, on 
page 945.) 



cheap, on account of having a very bad curb on one of his legs, 
making a very disagreeable blemish. He was purchased late in 
June and kept constantly to the hardest pulling as a wheel horse. 
A little of the above medicine was rubbed on about once a week, 
sometimes oftener, and again would frequently neglect doing so 
for more than that time. By fall the enlargement was all gone, 
and the leg was as smooth and well as the one opposite. 



COEDIAL FOE A HOESE. 1067 



Magic Liniment. 

Two oz. oil of spike, 2 oz. origanum, 2 oz. hemlock, 2 oz. 
worm-wood, 4 oz. sweet oil, 2 oz. spirits ammonia, 2 oz. gum cam- 
phor, 2 oz. spirits turpentine, and 1 quart proof spirits — 90 per 
cent. Mix well together, and bottle tight. For sprains, bruises, 
lameness, etc., in man, this liniment, without turpentine, is un- 
rivaled. 

This prescription was obtained by the writer twelve years ago, in Onondaga 
Co., N. T. Much was claimed for it; that it would cure lame back, bruises, sprains, 
etc., and with the turpentine worked well upon horse flesh. My attention has been 
particularly called to it during the past two years by parties who used it. In Niag- 
ara Co. , N. T. , a gentleman, in looking over his book after the school, pointed to 
it, Baying: "There is a receipt I would not take $50 for." He said a very fine 
horse in that neighborhood a few years ago got strained in the back so badly that 
he could not get up in consequence. A negro from Syracuse took the horse in 
charge, made and applied a liniment to the back, bathing it in thoroughly twice 
daily. There was rapid improvement ; the animal being soon able to get up, and 
got entirely well. He offered the negro $10 for the recipe, without avail; that he 
made the nigger drunk and stole the recipe from him; "and," said he, "that's it 
exactly." He took down a bottle from a shelf in the sitting-room (in Charlotte, 
Niagara Co., N. T.), saying: "Here is some of it; they could not keep house with- 
out it here. For toothache, neuralgic pains, sprains, etc., the landlady said it was 
indispensable; that they kept it always in the house." This was corroborated by 
others. 

At Clifton Springs, Ontario Co., N. T,, during my last tour through that sec- 
tion in 1874, a gentleman pointed out the same prescription taken from my old 
book, and said he would not take $100 for it; that he had cured 40 cases of neu- 
ralgia with it; that he put up the medicine as a specialty for that purpose, at $1.00 
a bottle ; first making it up for his wife, who was troubled with neuralgia, curing 
her. It was used by others with the same result. The demand becoming so great 
that he put it up as a specialty, and had thus secured a large local sale of it, 

A Good Application to a Putrid Ulcer. 

To remove fetid smell of fistulous withers, poll evil, canker, and 
wounds, dilute chloride of lime with twenty times its quantity of 
water, and dress with it whenever there is an offensive discharge; 
mix a poultice with this preparation, and put it on. It will remove 
all smell, and cleanse by its action. 

Best Cordial for a Horse. 

The following is the best cordial for a horse that is old, has lost 
his appetite, and is recovering slowly from sickness, or for an old 
horse that has been worked too hard: — 

Four parts each of carraway powder and bruised raisins, and 
two each of ginger and palm oil,, beaten into a mass. This is harm- 
less, and is one of the very best. 

To Cure Weak Back. 

O. J. Madison, livery keeper and large dealer in horses, of Mas- 
sillon, Ohio, a few years ago, cured several very bad cases. One 
horse was so weak that he would fall down and could not get up; 



1068 EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. 

said it would cure any case of weak back, and that he never knew 
it to fail. 

Give one grain of strychnine night and morning; next take 
equal parts of pine tar and pitch, warm until it spreads easily, and 
spread over the small of the back, from the hip forward ten inches, 
and across to almost the points of the hips; then spread on can- 
tharides (should be well pulverized) until the pitch is thoroughly 
covered; then cover with two thicknesses of cotton flannel. 

A stiff sticking plaster of this nature is called a charge, and the 
following is one of the best formulas: — 

Burgundy pitch or common pitch, 5 ounces; tar, 6 ounces; yel- 
low wax, 1 ounce, melted together, and when they are becoming 
cool, half a drachm of powdered cantharides well stirred in. This 
must be partially melted afresh when applied, and put on the part 
with a large spatula as hot as it can be without giving too much 
pain. Tow or cotton should be scattered over it while it is warm, 
which forms a thick, adhesive covering, that cannot be separated 
from the skin for months. — Youatt. 

Dr. Sheldon's Treatment for Worms. 

Dr. Sheldon says it never fails to clean the worms out of a 
horse. 

1st. Bran mash. In 24 hours give 1 drachm of santomine, 
which should be dissolved in water; then mix in a quart of starch, 
and give as a drench; in 30 minutes give aloes in solution sufficient 
to move the bowels promptly. 

For Bruise and Cut on Man or Horse. 

A favorite prescription of great value. 

Laudanum, 1 oz. ; arnica tinct., 1 oz. ; sassafras oil, 1 oz. Mix, 
bandage lightly, when possible, and keep wet. Said the gentleman 
who gave the above prescription, I bruised one of my fingers terri- 
bly, literally smashing nail and flesh. I was in the greatest pain. 
When, after hours of suffering, a gentleman from New York ac- 
costed me, and learning my trouble, said for thirty cents I can re- 
lieve and cure you. He gave me this prescription. I had it put 
up, kept my fingers wet with it during the night, and next day 
there was no pain, and in two days my finger was well. It re- 
moves all fire and pain and heals by first intention. 

To Eecruit a Horse Hide-Bound or Otherwise Out op Sorts. 

Nitrate potassa (or saltpetre), 4 oz.; crude antimony, 1 oz.; sul- 
phur, 3 oz. Nitrate of potassa and antimony should be finely pul- 
verized, then add the sulphur, and mix the whole well together. 
Dose: A tablespoonful of the mixture in a bran mash daily, for a 
week or two. 

This is the favointe prescription used by one of the best horse- 
men I ever knew, who was also a leading physician. He kept it 



GEBAT TANNING PEBPAEATION. 



1069 



a secret, but gave it to the writer on condition it should not be 
made known in his neighborhood. 

The Great Tanning Preparation. 

This is the great secret sold a few tears ago for tanning all 
kinds of skins with the hair on. The secret and right to use it 
were sold through the country at large prices: — 

To two pails of water add 2 lbs. alum; 2 qts. salt ; 2 lbs. 
Epsom salts; 2 oz. oil vitriol. Wet and scrape the meat and oil 
out; then pur the skins into the liquid, and let stand from eighteen 
to twenty-four hours. 

For Scratches, — a Yaluable Remedy. 
Sweet-oil, 6 oz.; borax, 2 oz.; sugar of lead, 2 oz. First wash 




Fig. 898.— Showing bronchial 
tubes. (Belongs to Bron- 
chitis, page 885.) 



Fig. 899. — Showing parasites burrowing in the 

skin, magnified. (This cut belongs to 

the article on Mange, but could not 

be found when making up.) 



clean with soft water and castile soap ; when dry, apply once a day. 
This is a good thing. 

For Inflamed Leg, Galled Shoulders or Back. 

Sal ammoniac, 1 oz.; vinegar, 4 oz.; spirits of wine, 2 oz.; tinct- 
ure arnica, 2 drachms; water, J pint. Mix, and bathe with it often 
and thoroughly. 

Wash for Eeducing an Inflamed Wound. 

One oz. sulphate of zinc, 1 oz. crotus martes, i oz. sugar of lead, 
1 pint water. A sore will not smell bad when this wash is used. 



1070 BECIPES AND PEESCRIPTIONS. 



For Fresh Strains, etc. 

Carbonate ammonate, 2 ounces; apple vinegar, ^ gill. Rub in 
well. 

A Fine Simple Liniment, 

Two parts ammonia to 4 parts of soft water. Good for 
strains, etc. 

To Reduce Swelling of the Legs and Strengthen the 
Tendons after Hard Driving. 

A favorite remedy on Long Island. One pint alcohol, 1 ordi- 
nary sized beef gall, 1 ounce organum, 1 ounce oil of spike, 1 ounce 
gum myrrh, J ounce camphor gum. First wash and rub clean and 
dry. Then bathe with the liniment and rub dry. Then apply 
again and bandage the leg, being careful not to bandage too tight. 

This is the best liniment for the purpose recommended I have 
ever used. It should be kept in every stable. 

Condition Powders. 

Take 1 pound of ginger, 1 ounce of anise seed, pulverized, 1 
ounce of fenugreek seed, 2 ounces of ginseng root, pulverized, 1 
ounce of the seed of sumach berries, pulverized, 1 ounce of anti- 
mony; mix it with one pound of brown sugar. This is excellent 
for coughs, colds, or to give a horse an appetite. 

To Cure Cough. 

Put into alcohol all the tar it will cut, and add one-third in 
quantity of tincture belladonna. Dose: from one to two teaspoon- 
fuls once or twice a day. Yery good. 

Cough Powder. 

Fenugreek, ginger, licorice and blood-root, equal parts. Half 
proportion lobelia and camphor may be added. Dose: tablespoon- 
ful twice a day. For heaves, add more camphor. 

Diuretic Drops 

That are reliable for stoppage of water, foul water, or inflammation 
of the kidneys, in all cases: — 

Take of sweet spirits of nitre, 4 oz.; balsam copaiba, 2 oz.; oil 
of juniper, 2 oz.; spirits of turpentine, 2 oz.; gum camphor, pulver- 
ized, 1 oz. Mix all together, and shake well, bottle, and it is fit for 
use for man or beast, under all circumstances Avhere a diuretic is 
required. 

Dose: for a horse, 1 oz. in half a pint of milk once in six hours; 
for a man, 1 teaspoonful in a tablespoonful of milk once in six 



FOE DIABETES. 



1071 



hours. Be sure to shake the ingredients up well before turning 
out for use. 

Drenches to Promote Parturition. 

Ergot of rye in fine powder, 2 or 3 drachmti; 
pennyroyal water or infusion of rue, 1 quart. 

EoR Diabetes. 

Opium, 1 drachm; ginger, 2 drachms; oak bark 
(peeled), 1 oz.; decoction of oak bark, 1 pint. 

CORBIAL AND AnODYNE BaLL. 

Castile soap, 3 drachms; camphor, 2 drachms; 
ginger, Ik drachms, and "Venice turpentine, 6 drs. 
made iato 1 ball. 

Aromatic Powder. 

Caraway, 6 oz.; pimento, 4 oz.; ginger, 2 oz. ; 
licorice, 2 oz. Mix. Dose, 6 to 8 drachms. 

Cooling and Diuretic Drink. 
Dissolve 1 ounce of nitre in a pail of water. 

Tonic Ball (Vegetable TonicJ. 

Peruvian bark, 1 ounce; opium, -J- drachm; gin- 
ger, 1 J drachms; oil of caraway, 20 drops. Treacle 
to form a ball. 

Diuretic Alterative Balls. 

Dried common soda, 1 oz.; castile soap, 6 drs.; 
resin, 2 oz.; licorice powder, ^ oz. ; Barbadoes tar, 
to form six balls. One daily. 

Laxative Alterative Balls. 

Fig. 900,— Show- 

Aloes, 4 oz. ; soft soap, 4 oz.; common moss, 2 J ing the Theca, or 

oz. Mix. Dose, one ounce. channel, of the 

perforans tendon 

Balls for Appetite. f* *^« ^J^^." ^"^^ 

heel, (This cut 

Equal weights of assafcetida, saffron, bay ber- on sl5ain° of the 
ries, and aloes, made into a mass with extract of Back Tendons, on 
gentian. Dose, 1 oz. page 957.) 

Anodyne Ball. 

Opium, i drachm to 1 drachm; camphor, 1 drachm; anise seed, 
^ oz,; soft extract of licorice. 



1072 EECIPES AND PEESCKIPTIONS. 

Cordial Balls. 

Ginger and gentian, equal parts; treacle to form, a mass. Dose, 
1 oz. to IJ oz. 

Ginger and caraway, each, 4 lbs.; gentian, 1 lb.; palm-oil, 4 J 
lbs. Beat together. Dose, 1 to IJ oz. 

Mixed Balls, Cordial Astringent Balls. 

Catechu, 1 drachm; opium, 10 grains. To wash horses before 
or after a journey. 

Diuretic Balls. 

Eesin, soap, and nitre, of each, equal parts; beaten together into 
a mass. Dose, 1 oz, to 1| oz. 

White soap, 8 oz.; niti'e, 3 oz. ; resin, 3 oz.; camjjjhor, 3 drachms; 
oil of juniper, 3 drachms. For 6 balls, one every morning or every 
other morning. 

Tonic Diuretic Ball. 

Gentian, 1 drachm ; ginger, J drachm ; sulphate of iron, 2 
drachms; nitre, Joz.; resin, ^ oz. Mix with molasses. 

Fever Balls. 

Emetic tartar, J drachm; camphor, J drachm; nitre, 2 drachms; 
ginger, 3 drachms. Mix, and make into balls. 

For Diabetes. 

Catechu, ^ oz.; alum, J drachm; sugar of lead, 10 grains; with 
conserve of roses to form a ball. 

Anodyne Drenches. 

Opium, 1 drachm, dissolved in warm water, J pint; add 1 quart 
of starch gruel. 

Mix tincture of opium, 1 oz. with sweet spirits of nitre, 1^ oz.; 
essence peppermint, 1 drachm, and water, 1 pint. 

To Cure Collar or Saddle Galls. 

Fill a fruit can about a third full with litharge, or 1|. Fill bal- 
ance with lard, and mix thoroughly. The litharge should be well 
prolonged. In twenty-four hours ready for use. 

To Heal Cuts or Bruises. 

A favorite remedy, by C. H. Smith, a practical livery man in 
Eureka Springs, Ark. Exceedingly good for saddle sores or galls. 

2 oz. gum camphor; 6 oz. castile soap; 6 oz. spirits ammonia. 
Mix, and let stand until dissolved; then add 2 oz. sal ammoniac, 16 
oz. spirits turpentine, 1 quart soft water. 

Stimulating Linisient. 

2 ounces aquse ammonia; 4 drachms organum; 1^ ounces raw 
linseed oil. 



CUEE FOE HEADACHE. 1073 



HUMAN REMEDIES. 

The prescriptions here following, among which will be found 
several of great value, have been obtained at considerable expense 
and trouble. The great value with which my old book, The New 
System, is held, is chiefly owing to the recipes given in it, all of 
which will be found under the various heads in this. This ap- 
preciation has induced me to add the recipes here following. 
Those for headache, hydrophobia, tape- worm, etc., are specially 
valuable. These recipes are worth more than the cost of the 
book. 

" Cure for Tape- Worm. 

" My symptoms while harboring a tape-worm v/ere most notice- 
ably a dej^ression of mind, caused, I suppose, by weakness for which 
I could f.co no cause (not then knowing its existence). Had a good 
appctite^not at all inordinate, only I would have a desire to eat 
within two hours after a good meal. I grew weaker daily, it 
seemed to me ; in fact, I was starving. 

" Cure. — I bought about two quarts of pumpkin seeds, peeled 
them, pounded the meats fine in a mortar ; took a teacup half full, 
added water to make it the consistency of a thick gruel, and ate 
it with my breakfast and dinner. The third doso brought the 
" varmint," though I persisted in taking three more doses, bo as to 
be sure and get away the head and neck, which are about the size 
of a darning-needle. Unless that comes away, it will grow again. 
The dose above named Avill cause some pain, as a physic, but it is 
in no way dangei'ous. It is a poison only to the worms. 
" SAMUEL B. MOESE, 

" 6th Aud. Office, Treas. Dep't., 

"Washington, D. C." 

See top page 911, where another modification of the remedy is 
given, as used by a well known veterinary surgeon of New York 
City. Would particularly call attention to how to use it, espe- 
cially so far as the fasting before taking it; next the taking of a 
brisk cathartic afterwards. 

CuEE FOR Headache. 

Eerocy annate of quinine, 60 grains; valerinate zinc, 20 grains; 
sohd extract hyoscyamius, 20 grains. Make into 20 pills. Take 
one pill three times a day, before meals, for three days; then stop 
three days, unless it is about time for the return of the headache; 

68 



1074 EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. 

in that case, keep right on with the pills. These pills are harmless, 
and are both tonic and nervine. 

This recipe is from Dr. Johnson, Atlanta, Ga., who gave it to Mr. Wm. An- 
drus, and he to Grandine & Hinman, druggists in Battle Creek, Mich., his succes- 
sors in business, who have used it among their friends and customers with univer- 
sal success. It is undoubtedly the best remedy for headache known to the profes- 
sion. 

During a chance conversation with one of the above firm in relation to the 
prescriptions for tape-worm and hydrophobia, given in other pages of this book, he 
referred to this recipe as invaluable for cure of headache, and referred to a large 
number of cases he knew to have been cured by it. Assured of its value, with the 
hope of being able to help those so unfortunate as to be subject to sick-headache, I 
made a special request for a copy of it, which was kindly granted. As this pre- 
scription cannot be put up by small country druggists, we would advise having it 
put up by the above firm. They are perfect gentlemen, and stand very high for 
integrity. This is not an advertisement, and is mentioned for the special benefit 
of friends who may need the medicine. It will cost §1.50 to fill the prescription. 

To Cure Fits. 

Put as much valerian root, and the castor or wart from a 
horse's leg, which is to be cleaned and cut into small pieces, as will 
be digested in a pint of whisky. Dose — three teaspoonfuls a 
day, and repeated until a cure is effected. A son of Mr. Hoyer's, 
of Shelby, Niagara County, N. Y., twelve years old, was subject 
to fits terribly, being in a fit sometimes, Mr. Hoyer stated, for two 
hours. Dr. Failing, of E,oyalton, next town, obtained the above 
remedy in Canada, which cured the boy in six months. Mr. Hen- 
derson, hotel keeper of Otisco, N. Y., claimed to have been cured 
by this prescription, also three others met by the writer in Central 
New York. 

Cure of Carbuncle. 

Take a cow's horn, scrape off about a handful of fine shavings, 
and apply to the enlargement. Continue repeating until there is 
relief. This is regarded specific, and gives relief in two or three 
days. 

Mr. McCombs, of Hot Springs, Ark., who gave it to me, referred 
to a number of bad cases cured. One especial case was that of a 
man who had a very bad carbuncle, of week's duration. He was 
recommended to use this. His doctor found it on, and took it off; 
but the patient had another poultice put on. The effect was so 
good, that the doctor, next time, said he might keep it on. The 
experiment was so marked a success that he adopted it as his 
method of treatment. 

Sure Cure for Bite of Rattlesnake. 

The leaves of boneset herb boiled down in milk to a strong de- 
coction, which is to be given freely as a drink ; also keep the bit- 
ten part well poulticed with the same, changing frequently until 



CUEE OF DIPHTHEEIA. 1075 

all dangerous symptoms disappear. Edward Comfort, of German- 
town, Pa., a Quaker, sixty years of age, of much intelligence and 
experience, gave me the above and the following statement in 
relation to this herb. He stated first that he knew by undoubted 
statements of neighbors and personally, of its being used in various 
cases with entire success, both on man and beast. A young wo- 
man living at Mahomeny Creek, JefF. Co., Pa., was bitten by a 
snake in the morning. Her father rode 20 miles to Eed Bank for 
a physician, but returning toward evening met a neighbor, Wm. 
Neil, who told him he knew how to cure her, and went home with 
him. Proceeding on a run across the meadow, gathering some 
boneset as he went along; and, to save time, as he neared the 
house he chewed some of the leaves in his mouth to a pulp, and 
the moment he reached the girl, put the mass, as a poultice, on the 
wound. He then immediately made a milk decoction, as first ex- 
plained, and gave a spoonful at a time, as she was able to take it. 
At the time of his arrival, her tongue was so swollen as to pro- 
trude out of her mouth, and bleeding from the mouth and ears. 
He remained all night, frequently changing the poultice, and giv- 
ing a few tablespoonfuls at a time. By morning she was able to 
close her mouth, and ceased bleeding at the nose and ears, and by 
evening was quite comfortable, and was soon entirely restored. 
Mr. C. also stated that the father of his aunt, Mr. Brady, exten- 
sively employed in surveying different counties in Pennsylvania, 
spending much time in the woods, related to him various cases 
where the above remedy had been applied with entire success. 

For Cure of Diphtheria. 

Given by Mrs. J. Ogden Dorcenous, the eminent chemist of New 
York City. 

Lime-water and carbolic acid. Spray the throat with it once 
an hour. 

To Stop Hair Falling Out. 

The following has proved so valuable a remedy for preventing 
nair falling out, as well as growing in new hair, that it is given a 
place here: — 

Fill a bottle with lobelia roots and stems, and cover well with 
good whisky, and let stand until digested; then strain off" the liq- 
uor and add any scent desirable. Wet the hair, rubbing well into 
the scalp with the fingers once a day for a week or two, repeating 
afterward as may be found necessary. 

Years ago the writer's hair was falling out rapidly; being no- 
ticed by a stranger, he advised the above dressing, saying his hair 
was falling out rapidly, and was not only stopped falling out, but 
had grown in thick by this remedy, and would warrant it to do 



1076 EECIPES AND PEESCEIPTIONS. 

so in my case. It was immediately used as directed, with the 
most satisfactory results. 

Years afterward his hair commenced falling out again; about 
what would be supposed an equivalent of the tincture of lobelia 
was used ; a little castor oil was added, scented with bergamot, and 
used as a dressing; the effect seemed to be the same as before. 
The remedy has been given by the writer to a number of persons 
who used it with the same success. 

To Take out Fire from a Burn. 

Take equal portions lime-water and raw linseed oil. Good for 
burns and scalds. Bathe the parts liberally with the liniment. 

This was given by W. Mansfield, of W. Eoxbury, Yt., and 
used by him for many years in his family ; claimed it to be one of 
the best remedies ever used for these purposes. In the proportion 
of f lime-water and g- linseed oil will cure the poisoning by ivy 
and dogwood. Wet a cloth and lay on the part, and keep con- 
stantly wet till well; 

A lady who had had much experience with these poisons, says 
this is the only thing that seems to take out the poison. 

Cure of Sciatic Eheumatism. 

A ease of sciatic rheumatism of two years' standing, cured by 
taking decoction of poke berries, prepared as follows: — 

Put a pint of the berries in a quart of whisky. After standing 
until fully digested, dose, one tablespoonful four times in twenty- 
four hours, or six hours apart. The case was very severe, resisting 
all regular treatment, and causing great suffering. "Was cured in 
a few weeks. 

Given by Eev. Mr. Button, of Evansville, 111. He obtained it 
from the man who was cured. 

Itch Ointment. 

1 oz. red precipitate; 1 oz. spirits of turpentine ; 2 oz. Bur- 
gundy pitch; J lb. fresh butter. Melt the butter and pitch, and 
add the other ingredients, stirring until cold. 

Inflammation of Kidneys and Bladder. 

This was given by a loading jjhysician as his favorite remedy. 
Fluid extract, colchicuni and digitallis, I ounce each. Dose, 10 
drops in a tablespoonful of water every morning. 

To Open the Bowels. 

Given by Isaac Price, of Schuylkill, Chester Co.. Pa. 
Take coarse cornmeal enough to make a pint, or pint and a 
half Boil it about half, or parboil, to Avhich add the size of a hick- 



ASTHMA.— HOW CUEBD. 1077 

ory rrnt of fresh made butter, or butter without salt. If agreeable, 
eat with it plenty of molasses. Make a meal of this, and repeat if 
necessary. 

For Catarrh, Sore. Throat, etc. 

2 oz. borax; 2 oz. burnt alum; 4 oz. camphor; 4 oz. Talcum. 
Use as snuff three or four times a day. Also good for headache 
and neuralgia. Used with great success in sore throat and diph- 
theria; taken as a gargle. Used by James Thompson, Chicago, for 
20 years, for cure of catarrh and cold in head. 

For Control of Nervous Irritability, Want of Sleep, etc. 

Prescribed by Dr. Jewell, of Chicago. 

19 gi-ains sulphate of morphia; 1 grain atrophia (belladonna); 
180 grains sugar of milk. To be put in a mortar, and worked 
thoroughly one hour. Dose for adult, 4 grains before going to bed, 
or repeated when necessary once in four hours. 

Eye Wash. 

A remedy of great vahie for inflammation of the eyes or sores of any 
kind. 

Crotus martes and white vitriol, equal parts ; dissolve in a half -pint of 
snow-water or pure soft-water. Dissolve thoroughly, and when settled, pour 
off and add half as much more water. If too sensitive, or much inflamma- 
tion, reduce. 

This has cured fever sores when all other treatment failed. Alzerah 
Williams, Mrs. Waite of Jamestown, N. Y., and John Woodford of West 
Hickory, Pa, , were cured by it. 

To Cure Boils. 

Two parts cream tartar, one part sulphur, one pint whisky. (About 
four cents' worth of each of the two. ) 

Take one tablespoonf ul three mornings ; then skip three mornings, and 
so on, for nine mornings. Obtained from an old man, and claimed to be an 
infallible cure. 

Asthma. — How Cubed. 

Take smart-weed, carefully dried. Fill an earthen bowl with smart- 
weed, pour in hot water, and cover until steeped. Take half a glass three 
times a day until cured. Given by James Garcelon of Lewiston, Me. Mr. 
Garcelon for two years could not sleep, except by sitting in a chair. Relief 
was immediate, and a cure was effected in a year. 

Another Remedy. — A lady of intelligence in Western New York told the 
writer that her uncle was cured of asthma by taking a teaspoonful of salt in 
half a tumbler of water before going to bed at night, and in the morning ; 
that he sat up to sleep for years ; that he had taken the salt and water for a 
year. He was entirely relieved of the asthma, but he kept taking the salt 
and water. 



1078 EBCIPBS AND PEESCRIPTIONS. 



How TO Give Relief in Obstinate Constipation. 

Cyrus W. King, of Brunswick, Me. , was relieved by this remedy after 
taking pills, etc., and failing to get a passage of the bowels for seventeen 
days. Put a tablespoonful of coarse Indian meal into a cup, and wet thor- 
oughly with common molasses, and take it all. An old lady who happened 
to hear of the case, said she could relieve the man in a few hours, and ad- 
vised this. It was taken at night, and there was perfect relief by morning. 

To Cure Colic. 

Take at once a tumblerful of hot molasses. A sailor who was delirious 
from colic, and nearly dead from it, was relieved in five minutes. Calling 
my attention to it, and claiming it would cure every case, I was induced to 
make a note of it. The sailor said he took cold molasses with the same ef- 
fect. 

To Cure a Fever-Sore. 

Take 3 ounces blue vitriol and 3 ounces gunpowder. Boil in a quart of 
soft water until thoroughly dissolved, and reduced to one-half the quantity. 
Pour on to the sore while hot as can be borne. 

Steven Johnson of Gouverneur, N. Y., was cured of a fever- sore on his 
arm, of the worst character, of a year's standing. Doctors said he must lose 
his arm — his own words. There was necrosis of the bones of the arm ; sores 
in three places ; was cured by one application. Mr. Olmstead, of Oxbow, 
N. Y. , had a bad sore below the knee ; went on crutches for six months ; 
was cured with one application. Several other cases were reported of an 
equally remarkable character. 

To Cure an Indolent Ulcer. 

A gentleman who had a fever-sore on his leg for seventeen years, had 
spent five thousand dollars in trying to get the sore cured, and had no hope 
of having it healed, was cured in three months by the following remedy : — 

Take the green scum that gathers on the water in the frog ponds in 
spring and summer ; boil over a slow fire ; then add fresh butter to the con- 
sistence of an ointment. Dress the sore with it once a day. The man 
claimed to have given it to others who were afflicted with obstinate ulcers, 
and that it had made perfect cures, and wished, from humanity to others so 
afflicted, that I would give it an insertion in my book. 

For Weak Back, Rheumatism, and Crick in the Back. 

British oil, 1 oz. ; oil of spike, 1 oz. ; origanum, 1 oz. ; camphor, 1 oz. ; 
alcohol, 1 pint. Put the British oil and camphor into the alcohol first ; 
shake well. T. H. Brown, of Madrid, N. Y. , was cured of rheumatism in 
the leg with this. His mother had a crick in the back ; was entirely disabled. 
A few applications cured her. Accounts of its valuable effects in the cure of 
other cases were reported. 



EEMAEKABLE CUEE. 1079 



Remarkable Cure. 

The following is a case of remarkable cure of bruise of thigh, from the 
use of hot salt. 

H. D. Johnson, of Pottsdam, St, Lawrence Co. , N. Y. , fell from a build- 
ing, twelve feet, upon a pile of wood, injuring him seriously in different parts 
of the body — the thigh very seriously bruised, causing him to faint away. 
He had a stiff leg for a month, the part swollen from the hip to the foot to 
twice its size, was treated with cold water by advice of three physicians. 
The limb was entirely stiff and disabled. As a matter of experiment he 
bound on a poultice of hot salt about an inch thick before going to bed. Next 
morning he could move and bend his leg, the swelling was all gone down, 
and he was perfectly cured. 

The simple facts, as stated above, were given to the writer six years after 
the injury of Mr. Johnson. 

For Rheumatism, Lame Back, and Difficulty op the Kid- 
neys (in man). 

Digitallis, calcium, and aconite, equal parts. Take 10 to 15 drops in 
water, twice a day. This is a favorite prescription that is valued highly, — 
worth, so claimed, many times the cost of this work. 

For Infant Colic, or Restlessness. 

Homeopathic pellets, medicated with the third dilution of chamamilla. 
Also of great benefit in derangements of the bowels, during teething. Dose 
from 2 to 6 pellets. 

The above has been recommended so highly, and I am made to believe 
is so valuable a remedy, in addition to being entirely harmless, that I am in- 
duced to include it for the benefit of families. 

To Cure Insomnia (Sleeplessness). Also Good for Cold and 
Biliousness. 

First get into a bath of a temperature of 98°, into which had been put 1 
pound sal soda and 4 ounces aquse ammonia. The head should be kept wet 
with cold water. Gradually increase the temperature as high as can be 
borne, or to 110° to 115°, remaining in from 10 to 15 minutes. When there 
is nervousness, itching of the skin, causing disturbance and irritation after 
the bath, take 1 part aquse ammonia to 4 parts warm water, and apply to the 
skin with a sponge over the entire body. ^ 

Prescribed by an eminent physician, of New York City ; given me by 
a gentleman well read in medicine, who used it with great success. Referred 
to a number of cases entirely relieved and cured by a few baths. The atten- 
tion of physicians is particularly directed to the value of the above. 

The bath should be taken before going to bed, 



1080 EECIPES AND PEES CEIPT IONS. 

Psoriasis and Eczema. (Paktictjlarlt Psoriasis.) 

Arsenite soda, 5 grains ; powdered extract nux vomica, 4 grains. Make 
100 pills ; take one after each meal. To insure a cure, should be used from 
1 to 6 months. 

2. Sulphur and cream tartar, each, 1 oz. ; calcined magnesia, ^ oz ; pow- 
dered sugar milk, 1 oz. ; powdered anise seed, 3 drachms. Mix. Dose: 1 
teaspoonful in water night and morning. 

3. Tar Ointment. — Pure tar, and beef suet, equal parts. Mix the tar 
with the suet, previously melted with a moderate heat. And having strained 
the mixture through muslin, stir it constantly while cooling. Apply 2 or 
3 times daily, rubbing in thoroughly. 

4. Particularly for psoriasis. Caustic potash, 2 drachms ; oil tar, ^ oz. 
Mix. Apply, externally, one part of the mixture to 4 parts rain-water. 
After using for 2 weeks, it may be used 1 part to 2 parts rain-water. 

A gentleman who had suffered terribly from psoriasis for years, though 
under treatment almost constantly by specialists at great expense, was given 
the above prescription by an eminent specialist, of New York City, which cured 
him in three months. Knows of its curing a number of bad cases to whom 
he gave the prescription. Regards it priceless in value. It is included here 
with the hope of its helping persons so affected. The treatment given should 
be regularly followed. 

Eye Wash. 

Take three hen's eggs and break them into a quart of clear cold rain-wa- 
ter ; stir until a thorough mixture is effected ; boil over a slow fire, stirring 
every few minutes ; add half an ounce of sulphate of zinc (white vitriol) ; 
continue the boiling a short time, and the compound is ready for use. In 
this preparation a solid substance, or curd, is precipitated or thrown down, 
and a liquid solution rests upon the top. This is the best wash for sore eyes 
of either man or beast that was ever made. The curd applied to the in- 
flamed eye at night will draw the fever and soreness nearly all out by morn- 
ing. After two or three days the water should be strained from the curd, 
and put into a bottle for future use. This wash is invaluable. Allien ap- 
plied to the human eye, it should be diluted. 

A gentleman who had a copy of my old edition, having this remedy in 
it, informed me that he was offered ^10 for the book on account of the value 
of this recipe, having used it in his neighborhood with great success, and 
that he would not sell it at any price. 




-^ADDENDA^ 



SPECIAL NOTICE TO FRIENDS AND INQUIRERS. 
In consequence of many inquiries from persons who desire instructions 
from me, asking when and where I would next teach a class, etc. , I would 
state that for at least six months I desire to give myself entire rest. I will 
not, on any conditions, teach classes as done by me heretofore. In the first 
place, it is entirely unnecessary, as all the instruction I could give will be 
found in this book more clearly and fully explained than I could give to a 
class in a few hours' time. In addition, the condition of my health will not ad- 
mit my being exposed again to the strain and excitement of this kind of work. 
When suitable or specially interesting subjects are available, I will, as 
a means of amusement to myself and interest to friends, make experiments 
to show the effects of my treatment. These lectures, or test experiments, 
will, in all cases, be given without charge, all subscribers to the book being 
admitted. 

Gentlemen writing to me on any busiaess, please be as brief and explicit 
as possible. In describing vicious horses of any character, give age, color, 
size, the kind of habit and action, long or short hair, kind of eye and head, 
etc. In making experiments, to be interesting it is necessary to have at 
least three cases, opposite in temperament and character, to show effects upon 
different kinds of character. I desire, so far as it is possible for me to do, to 
give leading horsemen an opportunity of witnessing test experiments made 
by the system of treatment given in this book. But I must, in all cases, be 
free to make such experiments in my own way, and to insure this, will make 
them on the condition of not taking pay. 

D. MAGNER, 
Maij "2"2, 1884. Battle Creek, Mich. 
« ^ » 

Cribbing. 

The following was omitted in its proper place on page 319, As it will, 
however, be found in the General Index, it will not make much difierence: — 

If regular treatment advised fails, try saturating the manger, neck-yoke, 
and straps, if inclined to bite them, with kerosene oil. Rubbing the parts 
bitten upon with strong fly blister, may next be tried ; or get cayenne or 
red pepper pods, boil down to a strong decoction, and wash the parts the 
horse may be induced to bite upon thoroughly with the solution. To be re- 
peated at least once a week, for a month or more. The object is to make 
the lips and mouth so sore as to prevent the inclination to bite. This method 
will often work very satisfactorily ; but, like the treatment first advised, must 
be done thoroughly to be effective. Covering the parts with sheep skin will 
seldom do any good. 

W. D. Gross, of Kutztown, Pa. , advertises a device for the cure of crib- 
bing, for wliich he claims much. It is simply a thin plate of metal placed 
over the upper front teeth and fastened at each end by small bolts. This 
will, of course, make the gums sore, if pressed upon to any extent, and will 
undoubtedly work well ; but it seems objectionable, on account of the an- 
noyance such a plate must cause a sensitive horse, and the method of fasten- 
ing it to the teeth. Cribbing can in all cases be stopped by buckling a wide, 
flexible strap, moderately tight, around the neck. It should be from 3 to 
3J inches wide. A narrow strap will not work well. 

(1081) 



am-RAl IFBEX 



A bad case, 303. 

Abnormal presentations, 1026. 

Absorption of coffin bone, 810, 814. 

A cold, 1033. 

Acidity of the stomach, 939. 

Acute indigestion, 940. 

Acute pleurisy, 1032. 

A dangerous case, 521. 

Adaptation to wants, 83. 

A desperate case, 482. 

Adjustable brace shoe, 1020. 

Advice to teamsters, 257. 

Afraid of railway car, 132. 

Afraid of robe, 129. 

Age, how to tell, 559. 

Allegan horse, 383. 

Allegan man-eater, 435. 

Almost a failure, 479. 

Amaurosis, 997. 

Ammonia liniment, 1048. 

Anasarca, 1000. 

Anchylosis of bones, 751, 752. 

An exciting incident, 344. 

Annoying difficulties, 527. 

Anodyne liniment, 1048. 

Antiphlogistics, 749. 

Application of subjective methods, 400. 

Approaching a vicious stallion, 301. 

Arabian secret, 403. 

Art of direct subjection, 457. 

Art of taming horses, 385. 

A runaway, 140. 

Ascaris, or ascarides, 906. 

Ascites, 999. 

A serious accident, 501. 

Atrophy, 812, 822. 

Autograph letter from Mr. Bonner, 513. 

Azoturia, 923. 



Backing, 274. 

In stall, 289. 
Back, teaching a colt to, 105. 
Back tendon, sprain of, 957. 

Treatment, 960. 
Bad case, 803. 



Bad shoeing, 627, 633. 
EfiEects of, 636, 648. 
Bad to bridle, 196. 
Bad to shoe, 55, 222. 

Confirmed in the habit, 229. 
Illustration, 468. 
Palliative treatment, 222-236. 
Subjective treatment, 237. 
Balking, 241. 
Double, 252. 
Illustrations of, 257-261. 
Restless, 250. 
Single, 241. 
Balking horses, 342. 

Simple treatment, 245. 
Balls, cathartic, 1042. 
Bar shoe, advantages of, 694. 
Bit, breaking, 70, 104. 
Four ring, 187, 271. 
Half moon, 75, 268. 
Spoon, 76, 269. 
Upper jaw, 72. 
Bitting, 107. 
Bleeding, 749, 1042. 
Blind Billy, 694. 
Blinders, custom of using, 112. 
Blistering, hints upon, 1030. 
Blisters, 1027. 

For spavin, 764. 
Bloody urine, 918. 
Bones, caries of, 752. 

Necrosis of, 753. 
Bones, diseases of, 751. 
Bones of the foot, 581. 
Bony enlargement, 754. 
Bots, 907, 912. 
Bowels, inflammation of, 898. 
Brace or stay shoe, 1019. 
Brain, influence on, 387. 
Brain, inflammation of, 919. 
Breaking down, 962. 
Breaking, or " W" bit, 70, 104, 399. 
Breaking rig, 80. 
Breeding, 537. 
Bridle, war, 47, 61, 399. 

Double-draw-hitch form, 62, 69. 
Bridle, Patent, 76, 363, 373, 399. 
Broken knee, 971. 



[1083] 



GENEEAL INDEX. 



1083 



Broken wind, 856. 

Bronchitis, 869, 885. 

Bronchocele, 861. 

Bruise of the sole of foot, 947. 

Bruises, 956. 

Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s horse, 415. 

o 

Calks, 948. 

Canker, 955. 

Capped hocks, 776. 

Carriage top, fear of, 469. 

Cast in the stall, 326. 

Castration, 1022. 

Cataract, 998. 

Catarrh, 841.- 

Catarrhal fever, 864. 

Catch a horse, 316. 

Cathartic balls, 1042. 

Causes of lameness, 783. 

Causes of spavin, 760. 

Caustics, 1049. 

Character, contrasts of, 572-579. 

Checking head high, 184. 

Check, over draw, 183. 

Chronic cough, 854. 

Chronic founder, 838. 

Chronic lameness, stages of, 803 

Circulation, 732. 

Derangement of, 7^2. 
Clenching down the nail, 665. 
Cleveland, success at, 500. 
Clicking and overreaching, 707. 
Coffin bone, absorption of, 810, 814. 
Coleman, Prof., 712. 
Colic, 740, 886, 1033. 

Flatulent, 894. 

Symptoms of, 891. 

Treatment for, 893. 
Collar and shoulder galls, 1017. 
Colt training, 91. 

To make gentle, 94. 

To subdue, 389. 
Committee report, 513, 515. 
Common cause of trouble, 466. 
Congestion of lungs, 868, 873. 
Confirmed kickers, 171. 
Constipation, 901, 905. 
Contraction, 668. 

Condition for cure, 679. 

Classes of, 677. 

To cure, 688, 672, 675. 
Contrasts of character, 572-579. 
Control by eye, or will, 408. 
Control by whipping, 60. 
Control of man by will, 409. 
Cooking food, 554. 
Corns, 695. 
Cough, chronic, 854. 
Counter irritants, 1038. 



Cows, kicking, 328. 
Cracks, heel, 1008. 

Quarter, 691. 

Toe, 694, 699. 
Cribbing, 319, 1081. 
Crupper, 187. 
Curb, 772. 

Curiosity, exciting, 491. 
Curling under of heels, 685. 
Cuts or wounds, 977. 

ID 

Dangerous ease, 531. 

Description of foot, 586, 637, 63::r. 

Of interior hoof, 839. 
Description of teeth, 570. 
Dialogue between man and horse, 450. 
Diaphragm, rupture of, 807. 
Diaphragm, spasmodic action of, 935. 
Diarrhea, 902. 
Difficulties, 497, 527, 531. 
Diseases and their treatment, 746. 
Diseases of the bones, 751. 

Eye, 990. 

Feet, 826. 

Lungs, 868. 

Nervous system, 918. 

Skin, 1003. 
Dislocation of the patella, 976. 
Distemper, 845. 
Diuresis, 916. 
Diuretics, 749. 
Division of the nerve, 801. 
Division of tendons, 1019. 
Docking, 1045. 
Double balking, 252. 
Double-draw-hitch, 63, 69. 
Drench, giving, 1039. 
Driving double, 116. 
Driving in harness, 103. 
Driving to poles, 110. 
Driving without reins, 347. 
Dropsy of the belly, 999. 

EfEect of bad shoeing, 636, 648. 

Of fear, 118. 
Elbow, tumor on, 1016. 
Embrocations, 1047. 
Epizootic, 864. 
Equestrianism, 350. 
Evil results of blistering, 1030. 
Eye, diseases of, 990. 
Eye, glass, 997. 
Excessive fear, 118. 
Exciting curiosity, 491. 
Exostosis, or bony enlargement, 754. 
Experience, personal, 473. 



1084 



GEJSTEEAL INDEX. 



Experiments, 483. 

Special, 495. 

Test, 523, 529. 
Explanations, 535. 
External part of the foot, 583. 
Extracts from standard authors, 712. 

Coleman, Prof., 712. 

Fleming, Geo., 716. 

Freeman, 723. 

Lafosse, 722. 

Miles, 715. 

Moorcroft, 714. 

Osmer, 719. 

Touatt, 715. 



Familiar talk with reader, 457. 
Fancher, O. H. P., 368. 
Farcy, 849. 
Fear, its effects, 118. 

Illustrations, 119. 
Fear, of carriage top, 126, 469. 

Objects, 127. 

Hogs and dogs, 132. 

Railroad cars, 132. 

Rattle of wagon, 125. 

Robe, 83, 129, 145. 

Sound of gun, 131. 

Umbrella, 88, 130. 
Feeding and watering, 551. 
Feet, condition of, 803. 

How to keep in a natural position, 
787, 792. 
Fistula of the withers, 985. 
Fever, catarrhal, 864. 
Fever, mud, 1008. 
Filaria, 907. 
Firing, 765, 1031. 

First attempts at horse taming, 473. 
First method of subjection, 30-38. 
First publications, 487. 
Flatulent colic, 894. 
Foaling, 1025. 
Follow, taught by whip, 101, 334. 

By rope halter, 97. 
Fomentations, 1032. 
Food, 552. 

Foot strap, 32, 79, 182. 
Force to trot, 330. 
Foulness of sheath and yard, 1025. 
Founder, or laminites, 826. 

Chronic, 838. 

Treatment for, 830. 
Four-ring bit, 72, 271. 
Fractures, 815, 974. 
Freeman, quotation from, 723. 
Frightened by a blanket, 141. 
Frog-pressure, 677. 



C3- 

Gallopsvllle horse, 414. 
Galls, collar and saddle, 1017. 
Gamgee, Joseph, 653, 952. 
Gangrene, 747. 
General Knox Stallion, 215. 
Getting cast in the stall, 326. 
Giving balls, 1038. 
Giving drench, 1039. 
Glanders and farcy, 848. 
Glass eye, 997. 
Goodenough, Mr., 381. 
Goodman horse, 207. 
Gravelling, 947. 
Grease, 1012. 
Grooming, 196. 

Half-moon bit, 75, 268. 

Haltering, 92. 

Halter pulling, 71, 279. 

Hamill, Prof., 643. 

Hankey mare, 206. 

Hard pullers, 74. 

Harness, how to fit, 111. 

Harnessing, 193. 

Head, checking high, 184. 

Headstrong horses, 70. 

Health, preservation of, 743. 

Headstrong stallions, 296. 

Heaves, 856. 

Heels, weak, 700. 

Hen lice, 1007. 

Herman horse, 420. 

Hettrick horse, 203. 

Hints upon blistering, 1030. 

Hip lameness, 968. 

Hip strap, 186. 

Hitching a horse, 291. 

The colt, 116. 
Hitching to a wagon, 110. 
Hoof lameness, 703. 
Horse-back riding, 350, 361. 
Horse distemper, 845. 
Horse doctors, 507. 
Hot fomentations, 1032. 
How to keep feet in natural condition, 

787, 792. 
How to tell the age, 559. 
Hydrophobia, 933. ' 
Hydrothorax, 883. 
Hypertrophy, examples of, 804. 



Illustrations of balking, 257. 
Illustrations of fear, 119. 
Illustrations of kicking, 197-221, 520. 
General Knox stalUon, 215. 



GENEEAL INDEX. 



1085 



Goodman horse, 307. 

Hankey mare, 206. 

Hettrick horse, 203. 

Lima stallion, 220. 

Malcome horse, 198. 

McVay horse, 212. 

Putney horse, 197. 

Wild Ravenna colt, 218. 
Illustrative cases of runaway, 267, 463. 
Illustrative cases of subjection, 412-448. 

Allegan man-eater, 435. 

Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s horse, 415. 

Gallopsville horse, 414. 

Herman horse, 420. 

" Jet "— Hillman horse, 425. 

Mt. Vernon horse, 412. 

Mustang pony, 443. 

Norwalk horse, 434. 

Oxford horse, 418. 

Roberts horse, 440. 

Wilkins horse, 421. 
Illustrative effects of fear, 136. 

Afraid of a robe, 145. 

A runaway, 140. 

Colt, bad to break, 144. 

Eight-year-old sorrel, 136. 

Frightened by a blanket, 141. 

Pony, nine-year-old, 142. 

Wild Pete, 147. 
Inattention and carelessness, 460. 
Indigestion, 939. 
Inflammation, 746. 
Inflammation of bladder, 917. 

Bowels, 898. 

Brain, 919. 

Eyes, 991. 

Kidneys, 915, 

Lungs, 868, 875. 

Os-pedis, 840. 

Veins, 1001. 
Influence on brain, 387. 
Influenza, 864. 

Injuries and diseases of penis, 1024. 
Injury by shoeing, 686. 
Injuries of the tongue, 983. 
In New York, 509. 
Insanity, 135. 
Interfering, 705, 707. 
Internal parts of foot, 589. 

J" 

"Jet"— Hillman horse, 425. 
Jumping fences, 327. 
Jumping out of shafts, 126. 

Keeping engagements, 533. 
Kickers, details of treatment, 165. 
Confirmed, 171. 



Mustang, to illustrate, 176. 

Runaway, 160. 

Sulky, 173. 

Switching, 179. 
Kickers, illustrative cases of, 197-221, 

520. 
Kicker, to break, 80, 158. 
Kicking, 152. 

In the stall, 190. 

When whipped, 188. 
Kicking cows, 328. 
Kicking strap, 179. 
Kidneys, inflammation of, 915. 
Kinds of shoes, 726. 
Knee, broken, 971. 
Knuckling over, 970. 



Ladies riding, 359. 
Lafosse, 722. 
Lameness, 704. 

Of the Shoulder, 964. 

Permanent, 819. 
Laminitis, or founder, 826. 
Lampas, 1003. 
Laryngitis, 843. 
Leg, Monday-morning, 937. 
Lie down, to teach to, 337. 
Lima stallion, 220. 
Liniment, anodyne, 1048. 

For the shoulder, 966. 

Of ammonia, 1048. 

Soap, 1048. 

Volatile, 1048. 
Lockjaw, 928. 

Lugging or pulling on rein, 273. 
Lungs, congestion of, 868, 873. 

Inflammation of, 875. 
Lymphangitis, 937. 

2sd: 

Madness, or rabies, 931. 

Mad staggers, 919. 

Maine, success in, 488, 493. 

Malcome horse, notable kicker, 198. 

Mallenders, 1017. 

Mange, 1005. 

Manner of spreading foot, 683. 

Mastering vicious horses, 232. 

McVay horse, 212. 

Megrims, or vertigo, 921. 

Meningitis, spinal, 923. 

Methods of subjection, 20-30. 

First, 30-38, 397. 

Second, 38-48, 897. 

Third, 48, 397. 
Morgan Tiger horse, 484. 
Mouth, sore, 984. 
Mt. Vernon horse, 412. 



1086 



GBNEEAL IJSTDBX. 



Mud fever, lOOS. 

Mustang pony, 443. 

Mustang, wild and dangerous, 401. 

Mustard, embrocation, 1048. 

Nails, clinching down, 665. 

Nailing the shoe, 661, 680. 

Nasal gleet, 863. 

Nature of spavin, 758. 

Navicular bone, fracture of, 816. 

Navicular disease, 823. 

Navicular or coffin joint lameness, 77^ 

Illustration of, 795. 

Mr. Koburg's treatment, 798. 
Necrosis, 751. 
Nerve, division of, 801. 
Nervous system, diseases of, 918. 
Nettle rash, 1004. 
Neurotomy, 799. 
Nicking, 1045. 
Norwalk horse, 434. 
Notices of the press, 500-505. 

o 

Objections in stabling, 545. 

Objects, fear of, 137. 

OfEutt, Denton, 368, 449. 

Oijening quarters of the foot, 688. 

Open joint, 971. 

Operation in neurotomy, 800. 

Ophthalmia, periodic, 994. 

Simple, 991. 

Specific, 994. 
Os-pedis, inflammation of, 840. 
Osteosarcoma, 751. 
Over-draw check, 183. 
Overloading, 256. 
Overreach, 951. 

Overreaching and clicking, 707. 
Oxyuree, 907. 



Pads for tender feet, 710. 
Paring the sole, 679. 
Partakes of owner's character, 387. 
Paralysis, 927. 

Partial, 933. 
Parturition, 1035. 
Patella, dislocation of, 976. 
Patent bridle, 76, 363, 373, 484. 
Pathological condition of feet, 803. 
Pawing in the stall, 335. 
Peditis, 840. 

Penis, injury and disease of, 1034. 
Perforans tendon, sprain of, 964. 
Peritonitis, 938. 
Periodic ophthalmia, 994. 



Permanent lameness, 819. 
Personal experience, 473. 
Phlebitis, 1001. 
Phlebotomy, 1043. 
Phrenitis, 919. 
Physicking, 1040. 
Pinkeye, 866. 
Pleurisy, 869, 878, 883. 
Pneumonia, 869, 875. 

Typhoid, 884. 
Poles, driving to, 110. 
Poll evil, 987. 
Poultices, 1034. 

Precautions to insure safety, 463. 
Preservation of health, 743. 
Pretended secrets, 459. 
Pricking in shoeing, 941, 666, GG7. 
Principle of shoeing, 687. 
Profuse staling, 916. 
Pulling on halter, 279. 

Treatment, 386, 388. 
Pulse, 1035. 
Purgatives, 749. 
Putting tongue out of mouth, 333. 

Quacks, 680. 

Quarter cracks, 691. 

Quittor, 951. 

Quotation from Prof. Hamill, 643. 

Gamgee, 653. 

McLellan, 644. 

Rabies, or madness, 931. 
Railway cars, fear of, 133. 
Rarey, John S, 368. 
Recipes, miscellaneous, 1050. 
Riding horseback, 350. 
Ring-bone, 770. 
Ring-worm, 1007. 
Roaring, 859. 
Robe, fear of, 83, 139. 
Roberts horse, 440. 
Rope rig for subjectiou, 31. 
Rowell, 1044. 
Rubefacients, 1030. 
Running away, 261. 
Running back in stall, 389. 
Rupture of diaphragm, 807. 

s 

Saddle and collar galls, 1017. 

SaUenders, 1017. 

Scratches, 1008. 

Sheath, foulness of, 1025. 

Sedatives, 749. 

Seedy toe, 946. 



GENEEAL INDEX. 



1087 



Selection of stallions, 538. 
Setons, 1031, 1044. 
Shoeing, 388, 580, 631. 
Bad, 633, 636. 

For ordinary uses, 658. 

French method of, 689. 

Hind feet, 666. 

Mode of, 833. 

Nailing, 661, 680. 

Noted points, 635. 

Principle of, 687. 

Quotation, 643. 
Shoeing tender, sore feet, 708. 
Shoes, kinds of, 736. 

Thin heeled, 788. 

With spring, 689. 
Shoulder lameness, 964. 
Shoulder, tumor on, 1014. 
Side bone, 773. 
Side reiners, 74. 
Simple ophthalmia, 991. 
Single balking, 341. 
Sit up, to teach, 339. 
Skin, diseases of, 1003. 
Sling for foot, 1031. 
Snake's power to charm, 409. 
Soap liniment, 1048. 
Sole, bruise of, 947. 
Somerville, Mr., 908, 930. 
Sore footed, 670, 704. 
Sore Mouth, 984. 
Sore throat, 843. 
Sound of gun, fear of, 131. 
Spasmodic action of diaphragm, 935. 
Spavin, 756. 

Cause of, 760. 

Bog, 774. 

Nature of, 758. 

Symptoms of, 760. 

Treatment for, 763, 764. 
Special experiments. 495. 
Spinal Meningitis, 933. 
Splint, or splent, 754. 
Spoiled by fright, 139. 
Spoon bit, 76, 269. 
Sprain and bruises, 956. 
Sprain of back tendon, 957. 
Sprain of the fetlock, 963. 

Of perforans tendon, 964 
Spreaders, 683. 
Stabling, 543. 

Ventilation, 547. 
Stages of chronic lameness, 803. 
Staggers, 919. 
Stallions, 393. 

A bad case, 303. 

Approaching, 301. 

Headstrong, 396. 

Vicious, 299. 
Stallions, iUustratiye cases, 305-317. 

Fred Amd horse, 305. 



Godolphin Arabian, 308. 
Statement of facts, 531. 
Stepping on glass, nails, etc., 941. 
Stifled, 976. 

Stifle-joint lameness, 977. 
Stomach, 939. 

Acidity of, 939. 
Strangles, 845. 
Strap, kicking, 179. 

Foot, 33, 79, 183. 

Hip, 186. 

Tail, 181. 
String halt, 935. 
Structure of foot, 808. 
StumbUng, 708. 
Subdue by medicine, 403. 
Subjection, 363. 

Application of methods, 400. 

Condition in, 394. 

Methods of, 20-30. 

Of colt, 94, 389. 

Points of investigation, 373. 
Subjection, first method, 30-38, 397. 
Subjection, Illustrative cases, 413-448. 

Allegan man-eater, 435. 

Buffalo Omnibus Co.'s horse,415. 

Gallopsville horse, 414. 

Hermon horse, 430. 

"Jet,"— Hillman horse, 435. 

Mt. Vernon horse, 413. 

Mustang pony, 443. 

Norwalk horse, 434. 

Oxford horse, 418. 

Roberts horse, 440. 

Wilkins horse, 431. 
-Subjection, second method, 38-48, 397. 

War bridle, 47. 
Subjection, third method, 48,, 397. 

Bad to shoe, 55. 

Not adapted to some cases, 57. 

One trial, 60. 

Sign of submission, 55. 

War bridle, second form, 49. 
Success in Maine, 488, 493. 

In Michigan, 503. 
Success in subjection, 393. 
Sullen colts, 94, 389. 
Sullen horses taught to follow, 97. 
Sun stroke, 933. 
Superpurgation, 903. 
Suppuration, 747. 
Surfeit, 1003. 
Sweeney, 966. 
Sweeney, 781. 
Swelled legs, 1000. 
Switching kickers, 179. 

T 

Tail strap, 181. 

Talk with reader, 457. 



1088 



GENEEAL INDEX. 



Taming horses, 517. 

Tape-worm, 907, 911. 

Teaching by whip, objection to, 102. 

Teaching to back and whoa, 10.5. 

To lolhjw, 96. 
Teeth, description of, 570. 
Tender feet, to shoe, 708. 

Pads for, 710. 
Tender bitted, 328. 
Tendons, division of, 1019. 
Tenotomy, 1018. 
Teres lumbrici, 906. 
Test experiments, 523, 529. 
Tetanus, or lockjaw, 928. 
The pulse, 1035. 
The rowel, 1044. 
Thin-heeled shoes, 788. 
Thorough-pins, 774. 
Thrombus, 1002, 
Throwing over backward, 114. 
Thrush, 954. 
Thumps, 935. 
To break a runaway, SO. 
To catch a horse, 316. 
Toe crack, 694, 699. 
To prevent bitting, 107. 
To subdue a colt, 389. 
Tracheotomy, 1045. 
Training the colt, 91. 
Treacherous character, 123. 
Treads, or calks, 948. 
Treatment of foot diseases, 826. 
Trichocephalus desper, 907. 
Tricks, to teach, 333. 

Chase a man, 346. 

Drive without reins, 347. 

Follow by whip, 334. 

Kick up, 335. 

Sit down, 337. 

Nod and shake the head, 334. 

Sit up, 339. 

Tell the age, 334. 

Throw boys, 340. 

To kiss, 337. 

Walk upon hind feet, 345. 

Walk on knees, 346. 
Trimming for shoeing, 646. 
Trot, to force to, 330. 
Trouble, common cause of, 466. 
Tumor on the elbow, 1016. 

On the shoulder, 1014. 
Turner, James, 850. 
Turning a horse out, 319. 
Tying up one foot, 79. 
Tympanites, 894. 



XJ 

Ulceration, 823, 747. 
Umbrella, fear of, 83, 130. 
Uncontr(jllablc resistance, 387. 
Upper jaw bit, 72. 
Urine, retention of, 918. 

Bloody, 918. 
Urticaria, 1004. 

Vascular system, division of, 734. 
Vaseline, 988. 
Vegetable caustics, 1049. 
Ventilation, 547, 743. 
Veterinary adviser, 857. 
Vertigo, or megrims, 931. 
Vicious horses, 232. 
Volatile liniment, 1048. 

War bridle, 47, 49, 61, 399. 

Double-draw-hitch form, 63, 69. 

Modification of, 66. 

Points of using, 64. 
Warren, Alexander, 934. 
Watering and feeding, 551, 557. 
Water in the chest, 883, 
Watson horse, 201. 
Weak heels, 700. 

Remedy for, 703. 
Weed, 937. 

Whipping to control, 60. 
White, Mr., 906, 909. 
Whoa, to teach a colt to, 105. 
Wild horses, 405, 
Wild Pete, 1 47. 
Wild Ravanna colt, 218. 
Wilkins horse, 421. 
Will not back, 274. 
Will not stand, 276. 
Wind sucking, 323. 
Winning treatment, 393. 
Wonderful exhibition, 512. 
" W " or breaking bit, 70, 104. 
Word of caution, 67. 
Worms, 906. 
Treatment, 908. 



Yard and sheath, foulness of, 1025. 
Youatt, Mr., 715. 



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